I am aware of the concern regarding the use of jet skis, speed boats and other motorised craft on both inland and coastal waters which are also used by fishermen, divers, yachtsmen and bathers. I understand from the Department of the Environment that local authorities have power to make by-laws regulating boating in public places which could be used for the purposes of regulating these craft.
The Merchant Shipping Act, 1992, which will shortly come into effect, enables me to make regulations governing the safety of pleasure craft, including jet skis, and their users. In this connection, the Pleasure Craft Safety Working Group has been established to review safety procedures and standards on such craft and to advise me on the need for and content of any new regulations. Among the options being considered by the Working Group are the possibility of a registration procedure for these craft and the designation of suitable areas for their operation. I am awaiting the Working Group's final recommendations before introducing any new measures.
