Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Jan 1998

Vol. 486 No. 1

Written Answers. - Directive Compliance Failure.

Michael Finucane

Question:

247 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the status of the action brought on 21 October 1997 by the Commission of the European Union against Ireland as a result of Ireland failing to fulfil its obligations under the EU Treaty by failing to comply with Council Directive 92/29 of 31 March 1992 regarding the minimum safety and health requirements for improved medical treatment on board vessels; if he will make a comprehensive statement regarding the costs which were incurred; if the directive has been implemented to date in 1998; if so, when it was implemented; and the reason, if any, for the delay in its implementation. [1510/98]

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

This directive has been given effect in Irish law by the European Communities (Minimum Safety and Health Requirements for Improved Medical Treatment on Board Vessels) Regulations, 1997, which were signed by me on 16 December last and came into operation on 31 December. The delay in implementing the directive arose due to a combination of factors, mainly the need to put in place the necessary administrative arrangements to facilitate the introduction of the regulations. The case brought against Ireland by the EU Commission in respect of Council Directive 92/29 is currently before the Court of Justice of the European Union. The case is being handled by the State's legal services.