asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has received from the British maritime authorities a report on the Christos Bitas tanker and its recent accident in the Irish sea; and, if not, if he is in a position to seek such a report, and to make it available to Members of the Oireachtas.
Written Answers. - Oil Tanker Accident.
469.
The Irish authorities concerned have been in close and continuous contact with the British authorities from the very early stages of the casualty and there has been a regular flow of information throughout. I understand that the responsible British Minister has intiated a preliminary inquiry into the occurrence and will in due course be considering the holding of a formal inquiry. It is traditional practice to publish reports of formal inquiries into shipping casualties.
470.
asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he is satisfied that the British maritime authorities acted properly in allowing the Christos Bitas oil tanker to sail out into the Irish Sea, thereby endangering the Irish coastline; and if he is not so satisfied, if he will detail the precise action which has been taken by his Department to ensure that such an occurence will not be repeated in the future.
I would refer the Deputy to Question No. 13 of 26 October 1978.