Trevor Sargent
Question:20 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the outcome of the review to identify the best means to regulate jet skis and fast power boats. [15712/99]
Written Answers. - Water Sports Vehicles.
Ivor Callely
Question:42 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the progress, if any, made to address the issues of public concern regarding the use of jet skis and speed boats in bathing areas; the time schedule involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16034/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 42 together.
Action is being taken on a number of fronts to address the problem of indiscriminate use of jet skis and fast power craft.
My Department's marine safety working group, which is chaired by the director of the Irish Marine Emergency Service, has introduced a safety code for jet skis which is being widely disseminated to interested parties. It is intended to follow this up with more comprehensive educational material.
I also understand a number of local authorities are considering how best to advance locally based solutions with a view to ensuring that jet skis are not a danger to swimmers and other water users. In particular, Fingal County Council has recently introduced by-laws for beaches in its area which, among other things, will address the control and regulation of jet skis. The Fingal council is also considering how best to regulate the use of jet skis in certain estuarine waters within its jurisdiction.
Experience in Ireland and abroad has shown that locally based plans to address the use of jet skis and fast power craft must be developed in conjunction with water users. I consider that the approach adopted by Fingal County Council is a useful initiative which I believe will serve as a model for further action in other sensitive areas.
The review being undertaken by the Marine Institute into safety in the water leisure sector is not yet complete but I have asked that it be expedited. That review will include an examination of the options for the management and regulation of jet skis and fast power craft.
In the light of the review and of the Fingal County Council model, my Department will liaise with other coastal local authorities with a view to determining jointly with them whether and how the Fingal model might be applied in their cases.