Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Jan 1998

Vol. 486 No. 1

Written Answers. - EU Directives.

Michael Finucane

Question:

173 Mr. Finucane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the status of the action brought on 22 October 1997 by the Commission of the European Communities against Ireland as a result of Ireland failing to fulfil its obligations under the EU Treaty by failing to comply with Council Directive 93/103 of 23 November 1993 regarding minimum health and safety requirements for work on board fishing vessels; if she will make a comprehensive statement in relation to costs which were incurred; if the directive has been implemented to date; if so, when it was implemented; and the reason, if any, for the delay in its implementation. [1509/98]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Miss Harney):

Council Directive 93/103/EC concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for work on board fishing vessels has not yet been transposed into Irish law. Draft regulations are at present with the office of the parliamentary draftsman. On 23 October, 1997 the European Commission applied to the European Court of Justice to find that Ireland has failed to adopt laws, regulations or administrative provisions necessary to comply with Council Directive 93/103/EC. No costs have been incurred to date as a result of this action.