Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 18 Feb 1993

Vol. 426 No. 3

Written Answers. - Passenger Boats.

Ivor Callely

Question:

74 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine if he has satisfied himself with existing legislation on boats which carry passengers for hire or reward within the scope of merchant shipping legislation; the penalties for the illegal carriage of passengers; and whether he will increase these penalties.

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Andrews)

The Merchant Shipping Act, 1992, provides that all passenger boats must be inspected and licensed by the Department.

This new requirement, which came into operation on 1 August 1992, applies to small passenger boats plying to off-shore islands or on rivers, lakes and canals, boats carrying sightseeing groups and boats carrying people to their place of work. A passenger boat licence may only be granted after the vessel has been inspected by a marine surveyor of my Department and found to be suitable. The licence specifies the limits beyond which the vessel may not ply and the maximum number of passengers that may be carried. Inspection of boats for licensing has been taking place on an ongoing basis since last August. I am satisfied with progress and with the support being given by Garda, tourism and other organisations in publicising the new standards.

The Merchant Shipping Act, 1992, also provides for penalties for the illegal carriage of passengers and other offences. Fines of up to £50,000 or imprisonment for a term of up to two years, or both, may be imposed. I am satisfied that the level of penalties will serve as a sufficient deterrent.