Vol. 410 No. 1
20 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the findings of a recent survey published by a French magazine (details supplied) which rated Irish Ferries last of 36 international ferries surveyed; if he intends to request any review of safety procedures, especially in regard to evacuation methods; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I can tell the Deputy that I have seen a copy of the article published in the French consumer magazine Que Choisir. The article contained details of the evacuation procedures used on 36 passenger ferries which operate from French ports. The vessels were assessed under various headings with each ferry being given an overall rating of very good, good or average. Twenty-five vessels received an overall rating of very good and seven were rated good. Four vessels including the two Irish Ferries vessels the St. Killian II and St. Patrick II were rated as average.
Since receiving a copy of this article I have passed a copy to Irish Ferries with a view to obtaining their comments on it. This report will also be discussed at a future meeting of the National Ferry Safety Committee which works to ensure that the highest standards of safety are maintained on all ferries operating here.
