An Cosantóir

5 To the men and women of our Naval Service, A Chairde, As I noted at the end of last year, I was proud to return as Minister for Defence in 2020. That pride is swelled by the opportunity afforded me to congratulate you and to celebrate with you on your 75th Anniversary. Being a Corkonian enhances my pleasure in celebrating this milestone and your achievements even more! The people of Cork and of Ireland applaud you on your Diamond Jubilee! Your dedication to service, to maritime security, to the marine environment and to each other is evident in the professionalism and steadfastness with which you have undertaken your roles assigned by Government over these last 75 years. Key moments in the history of the Naval Service include the establishment of the Service in 1946, the extension of Ireland's Economic Exclusion Zone from 12 to 200 nautical miles in 1976, the visit of LÉ Niamh to Asia in 2002 and more recently during the last decade your considerable contribution to Operations PONTUS and SOPHIA in the Mediterranean. Beginning with an original three corvettes, LÉ Maev, LÉ Macha and LÉ Cliona in 1946/47 and moving to the current flotilla of modern class today, the next 75 years and beyond should be considered with an optimistic view. I was very fortunate and very proud as Minister for Defence during my previous tenure to have a role in the acquisition of new ships as part of the Naval Service ship replacement programme and I note the successes these ships have had whether on mission in the Mediterranean or carrying out fisheries protection across Ireland's entire EEZ. I also note that we recently launched the MRV project with the launch of the tender competition for the provision of external Marine Advisor services to support this complex and important project. This is a hugely significant and positive step to take and it is fitting it happens in this your 75th year. As the State's principal seagoing agency with a general responsibility to meet contingent and actual maritime defence requirements you are tasked with a variety of defence and other roles, roles which you fulfil to the highest standard. I'm sure the various agencies and groups you cooperate with, such as the Irish Coast Guard and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, among others, would join me in thanking you for your ongoing service and utility to the nation and her people. Today, your role at the national level cannot be understated and looking forward, your potential should not be underestimated. Comhghairdeas agus go raibh an ghaoth go brách ag do chúl. MINISTER FOR DEFENCE SIMON COVENEY 75TH ANNIVERSARY MESSAGE TO THE IRISH NAVAL SERVICE Simon Coveney TD Minister for Defence MINISTER FOR DEFENCE

• Cover