Gay Mitchell
Question:28 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) on the safety of sea ferries; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Safety of Sea Ferries.
I am aware of the article referred to by the Deputy which was published in the UK recently. While the article refers primarily to ferries operating in and out of the UK, I am nevertheless concerned at some of the criticisms which it makes, particularly in relation to passenger evacuation procedures. I have asked the National Ferry Safety Committee, an expert group set up by my predecessor, to examine the contents of the article and report back to me. The committee is chaired by my Department's chief surveyor and includes representatives of ferry companies operating in and out of Ireland.