Paul Bradford
Question:73 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Defence the legislative initiatives he proposes to introduce during 1994.
Written Answers. - Legislative Initiatives.
Pending the outcome of the review of the Defence Forces being undertaken by the efficiency audit group there are no legislative initiatives under consideration.
Paul Bradford
Question:74 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for the Marine the legislative initiatives he proposes to introduce during 1994.
I set out hereunder a list of legislation which I propose to introduce into the Dáil in 1994.
1. Irish Shipping (Employees) Ex-Gratia Payments Bill — to provide the statutory basis for ex-gratia payments to former employees of Irish Shipping.
2. Sea Fisheries (Amendment) Bill — amending on foot of the ruling of the European Court of Justice of 4 October 1991 the nationality provision of the Mercantile Marine Act, 1955, and the Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1983, in relation to the licensing and registration of fishing boats, the provisions relating to the confiscation of fishing boats and other miscellaneous provisions.
3. Harbours Bill — to provide for the reorganisation of commercial ports by the establishment of commercial State companies to manage the major ports.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:75 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for the Marine if he will introduce legislation to ensure that all ferry operators and ferries are licensed; and that crews and passengers wear life-jackets.
Under the Merchant Shipping Acts all passenger ferries operating at sea or on inland waterways are required to be licensed. Operators of all such vessels must, for licensing purposes, satisfy a comprehensive range of safety standards in relation to vessel construction and seaworthiness and approved firefighting and life saving equipment. A minimum of one life jacket must be carried for each person on board which must be clearly marked and readily accessible at all times.
A review of the operation of passenger ferries around the coast is under way with particular emphasis on compliance with, and enforcement of, the law as it stands. Existing safety requirements are also being reviewed and will be enhanced as necessary.