Tony Killeen
Question:62 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for the Marine if he intends to bring forward legislation to enable Irish Lights to proceed with a radio navigation mast near Loop Head, County Clare. [14553/95]
Written Answers. - Navigation Mast.
I am currently considering the implications of the recent High Court judgment which held that the Commissioners of Irish Lights do not have the necessary legal powers, under the 1894 Merchant Shipping Act, to engage in the construction, maintenance or operation of navigation equipment based on the transmission of electromagnetic impulses as such equipment had not been invented at that time. This decision has wider implications beyond the Loran C project and is of particular concern regarding the existing range of radio-based marine aids to navigation provided for the safety of shipping in Irish waters. The Department has sought the advice of the State's legal services in this matter and I understand that one of the options available to me is legislative amendment. I have yet to make a decision in this regard.