Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 4

Written Answers. - Departmental Policy.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

29 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Marine if he will outline the procedural and operational changes he proposes to introduce into the operations of his Department so as to give effect to the Taoiseach's statement of his commitment to open Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Marine (Dr. Woods)

Throughout my career as a Minister and public representative I have always been committed to a policy of openness and transparency.

I came to my brief in the Marine with an open mind and an open door. Organisations, groups and individuals representing marine interests have been encouraged to come to me with their views and to have full access to my Department. I have already visited most of the marine and marine related locations and installations. Each of these visits have been signalled in advance so that all of those I serve as Minister for the Marine could have the opportunity to put their views to me. In the area of marine safety, I have changed the procedures which heretofore had governed availability of information in relation to the investigation of marine casualties under the Merchant Shipping Acts. In future a report will be released in connection with preliminary inquiries held by my Department. This will go a long way towards allaying public concerns in this area. Regulations governing environmental impact assessment of projects within my bailiwick will be rigorously enforced, in the full spirit of openness and public consultation. Public information, communications and media information has been targeted as an area for development. It is my objective to provide a more comprehensive service for public representatives, organisations and others with an interest in the marine.

I would add that the Department of the Marine have in operation in many areas of their responsibilities consultative groups in which the sectors concerned have a regular opportunity to exchange views with the Department.