AN IRISH NAVAL ship has suffered damage in bad weather in Dún Laoghaire, as it struck a quayside, The Journal has learned.  

The LÉ Aoibhinn arrived in Ireland from New Zealand in May 2023 having been purchased with another vessel the LÉ Gobnait. The state paid €26m for the Lake class vessels.

They are not deployed to patrol in the Atlantic but will instead stay in the supposed calmer waters of the Irish Sea. 

In October 2024 it was announced by the Government that they were entering into discussions with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council to secure berthage space in the south county Dublin harbour.

It is understood that the damage happened in bad weather during an easterly gale as the ship was tied up at Carlisle Pier in the town. 

Sources have said that some damage was sustained to the hull and inner structures. It is understood that the vessel had sailed back to Cork after an inspection. It is believed the vessel is scheduled to go into a maintenance period soon.  

The Irish Defence Forces confirmed the incident and said it happened during Storm Chandra in late January. 

“Due to the severe weather conditions caused by Storm Chandra, the LÉ Aoibhinn sustained damage to her hull while alongside Carlisle Pier in Dún Laoghaire. After conducting a survey of the damage, it was assessed to have had no effect on serviceability.

“LÉ Aoibhinn continued on her sailing orders and weather permitting, will recommence Maritime Defence and Security Operation (MDSO) Patrols, as planned,” a spokesman said.