Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 7

Written Answers. - Water Craft Regulations.

Pat Carey

Question:

117 Mr. P. Carey asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will prohibit the use of water bikes and jet skis which are a menace on our seas, rivers and lakes in view of the revision of the EU's Recreational Water Craft Directive due to come into effect in June 1998; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16989/97]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods)

The European Council Directive 94/25/EC, which is due to come into effect in June 1998 is primarily intended to eliminate technical barriers to trade by approximating design and construction standards for recreational craft throughout the Community. The Directive only addresses the construction aspect of recreational craft, and does not require compliance with safety standards to ensure the safe operation of such craft. Furthermore jet skis and water bikes are excluded from the scope of the Directive.

Proposals to amend the Directive, to include engine exhaust and sound emission requirements, are currently being discussed by the European Commission. It is intended that these requirements, if adopted, will apply to the construction of water bikes and jet skis.

The Merchant Shipping (Jet Skis and Fast Power Boat) Regulations, 1992 were introduced to enable local authorities, regional fisheries boards, harbour authorities and the Commissioners of Public Works to propose to the Department of the Marine that areas, within, or in the seas adjoining, their jurisdiction be designated as unsuitable for the operation of these craft in the interests of the safety of pleasure craft and their occupants.

The measures are available only for the protection of pleasure craft and their occupants and do not extend to the protection of swimmers, bathers or the natural environment as these matters would be beyond the scope of the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources statutory powers.

While I have no direct function with regard to swimmers, bathers and other users of the coastal resource, I am, nonetheless, very concerned about the threat to their safety, and the general nuisance, from craft such as jet skis and fast power boats. As a result, my Department is currently carrying out a review of the 1992 Regulations in order to identify the most effective means of controlling power craft in the interests of other water users. In addition to this review, I have very recently decided to establish a group to examine models whereby competing uses of marine leisure area, including by jet skis and fast power boats, can be accommodated. I can assure you that I will be supportive of any recommendations made which will lead to the improvement of safety for all water users and the general enjoyment of our unique coastal environment.