WATCH: 'Sad day' as naval service bids farewell to LE Eithne

There were emotional scenes at Haulbowline naval base in Co. Cork as members of the Defence Forces bid farewell to the LE Eithne which is to be taken apart for scrap.

The vessel, which was built in Verolme in 1984, was part of the Irish naval fleet for 38 years and was deployed on hundreds of missions around Ireland and abroad.

The former flagship of the fleet was decommissioned in July 2022 and there were hopes it could remain in Ireland and the possibility of it being used as a museum was examined but this was found to be unviable.

LÉ Eithne, which had a crew capacity of 75, was the first Irish naval vessel to have helicopter capabilities and it was also the first to cross the Atlantic Ocean to North America.

Today we said a sad goodbye to LE Eithne as the HPV departed the Naval Base for the final time. Built in Verolme in 1984, L.E. Eithne served Ireland for 38 years on missions at home and abroad prior to decommissioning as flagship.#navalservice #navy #bemore #oglaighnaheireann pic.twitter.com/BPU93EJTDL

— Irish Naval Service (@naval_service) March 5, 2024

During its service it was also the first to travel to the southern hemisphere.

The Department of Defence has said work to replace the LS Eithne with a multi-use vessel is progressing.