Vol. 475 No. 1
302 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for the Marine if he will publish the findings of the inquiry into the collision of the Kilkenny and the Hasselwerder in 1991; and when compensation will be agreed with the victims and their representatives. [4466/97]
A preliminary inquiry into the collision was carried out by marine surveyors from my Department and it is my intention, subject to legal considerations, to publish a report of that inquiry.
The question of publishing a report gives rise to a number of complex legal issues, which are at present being considered by the Attorney General's office. Experience in these matters suggest that this process is likely to be protracted.
As my Department has no function in relation to the payment of compensation, it would be inappropriate for me to comment as this is essentially a civil matter between the parties involved.
