4 ships out of operation because of crew shortages.
Declining numbers in the naval service is impacting its ability to carry out key roles.
The Irish Examiner reports a retention crisis is making it difficult to conduct search-and-rescue operations and sea fishery protection.
Time flows quickly as Naval Service tries to keep personnel numbers afloat https://t.co/fS7r3UaUFJ
— Irish Examiner (@irishexaminer) May 22, 2021
The naval service is currently operating without four ships - the LE Eithne and LE Orla were taken out of operations in 2019 due to crew shortages.
The paper says a shortage of engine room specialists could tie up a further vessel or cut back on patrol hours.

Funding Suddenly Approved As Clane School Faces Fire Safety Closure
Faulty Software Update Leaves Thousands Of New Passports At Risk Of Travel Problems
Kildare Council Proposes To Relax Rules After Serviced Sites Scheme Fails To Generate Interest
Maynooth's Paul Mescal Explains Why He Prefers London Over Dublin Following Backlash
European Union Approves Mercosur Trade Deal
Uisce Éireann Reminds Motorists Of Two-Month Road Closure In Leixlip For Pipeline Works
Revealed: Roof Leaks And Mould Close Classrooms At Curragh Community College - Students To Walk Out