Vol. 451 No. 4
49 Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Marine whether he intends to amend the Mercantile Marine Act to allow for the issuing of a fishing boat licence where the title to a vessel has not been evidenced by a bill of sale and cannot be due to the death of the vendor. [6260/95]
All vessels, including fishing vessels, over 15 net registered tonnes are required to be registered for title under the 1995 Mercantile Marine Act. Sale or transfer of ownership of a vessel which has its title registered under the Mercantile Marine Act must be endorsed on the certificate of registry.
The granting of a sea-fishing boat licence is conditional on the applicant providing satisfactory proof of ownership of the vessel. A Bill of Sale is prima facie proof of ownership. Where a bill of sale is not available, the Department is prepared to accept such other documentary evidence, on a case by case basis, as will satisfy the question of ownership.
I am not aware of any compelling reason why the Mercantile Marine Act should be amended in the way proposed by the Deputy. If however he has a particular case in mind I would be glad to see whether the Department can assist.
