Vol. 502 No. 5
35 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the outcome of the investigations into the loss of the vessels, mv Scarlet Buccaneer and New Ross 1; the proposals, if any, he has for a new marine board to investigate these tragedies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8564/99]
I have recently published two reports, made to me following investigation by my Department's marine survey office, of the separate casualties involving the fishing vessel Scarlett Buccaneer and the New Ross 1 tug/work boat. Copies of both reports, which outline the sequence of events which led to these tragic accidents, were already made available to the Deputy.
The key recommendations of the reports had been addressed by my Department prior to publication of the reports. In the case of the New Ross 1, I have directed that a review be undertaken to ensure compliance with the safety measures for tug boats, which were outlined by my Department for the benefit of harbour authorities and shipping interests, following this tragedy. The enhanced helicopter rescue service for the east coast, which was the principal recommendation in the Scarlett Buccaneer report, has been put in place.
In regard to the proposed new marine casualty investigation board, I have published the report of the Investigation of Marine Casualties Policy Review Group and I have accepted its key recommendation to establish an independent board. I have also recently secured Government approval to the general scheme of a Bill to establish the board and to the drafting of the Bill by the parliamentary draftsman.
The board, which will be statutorily independent in the exercise of its functions, will have powers to investigate marine casualties and will be required to publish reports of its investigations within specified timescales.
