Gerry Reynolds
Question:24 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the findings, if any, of the Investigation of Marine Accidents Policy Review Group. [19006/97]
Written Answers - Marine Accidents.
As I outlined to the House on 13 November 1997, the Investigation of Marine Accidents Policy Review Group was established in November, 1996 to review the existing policy, procedures and legislative framework for maritime casualty investigations in Ireland.
The group is being chaired by Mr. Vincent Power, and the membership includes representatives of my Department, including the Marine Survey Office and the Irish marine emergency Service, as well as persons with relevant knowledge and experience in accident investigation and from the legal and maritime professions.
The setting up of this group is an expression of the importance which my Department attaches to tackling this issue. The policy aim underpinning the review is to put in place a modern casualty investigation system for Ireland, in accordance with the highest international practice, which will provide greater clarity as to when such investigations shall be held, how they should be conducted and as to what their role and scope should be. It is my intention that this policy will meet the needs and expectations of the various interested parties in relation to casualty investigations. I hope any problems encountered in carrying out previous casualty investigations, and any lessons learned, will be examined with a view to ensuring that the Department's procedures particularly concerning communication with bereaved families, the industry, media and other State agencies, are sensitive, clear and useful.
I am informed by the chairman that the group have met on over 40 occasions and have conducted the most thorough and wide-ranging examination of maritime casualty investigation in Ireland. I understand that another meeting is due to be held within the next week in order to finalise the report of the review group and that it is the chairman's intention to present their report to me by the end of this month. The necessary arrangements will then be made by my Department in order to publish the report as soon as possible in the New Year.
I look forward to the outcome of this review and can assure the Deputy that whatever recommendations arise from the group will be given urgent and full consideration by my Department.