Vol. 489 No. 3
38 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed by the Consumers Association of Ireland in relation to the findings of a survey by European consumer associations on safety ratings on passenger ferries operating on the Irish Sea; if he has satisfied himself that the safety levels are the best possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8006/98]
I am aware of the survey conducted by consumer organisations on passenger ferry services operating on the major routes between Ireland, Britain and France, in the North and Baltic Seas and in the Mediterranean. I note that the survey did not cover the Isle of Inishmore, which as the Deputy will be aware is the newlybuilt superferry operating on the Dublin-Holyhead route.
My Department has looked at the results of the survey and I am satisfied that our existing legislative and inspection regime for safety on ferries is in line with, and in many respects exceeds, international and EU standards.
The Marine Survey Office of the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources operates a strict year-round inspection programme for all ferries using Irish ports. This programme is designed to ensure strict compliance with national, international and EU safety standards. The programme also encourages a culture of safety, reliability and best practice.
Irish-registered passenger vessels are subjected annually to a thorough inspection for the renewal of their passenger and safety certificates. These vessels are required to be equipped, maintained and inspected to the highest international standards. Foreign-registered vessels using Irish ports are also inspected regularly in exercise of Ireland's obligation as a port State.
