Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Mar 2000

Vol. 516 No. 4

Written Answers. - Merchant Vessels.

Michael Bell

Question:

31 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether some 40% of the number of ships passing near or through Irish waters are using flags of convenience for purposes of tax evasion, non-recognition of trade union organisations and avoidance of proper safety regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5181/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

I presume the Deputy is referring to merchant vessels. All merchant vessels of any significant size must be registered. There are more than 140 ship registers in operation worldwide. Ship registers impose obligations on ship owners regarding maintenance, crewing standards and certification of those matters by the flag state or inspection bodies duly authorised by the flag state.

All merchant vessels irrespective of flag state are entitled to innocent passage through Irish waters under international law. However, foreign registered vessels using Irish ports are inspected regularly by the marine survey office of my Department in the exercise of Ireland's port State control obligations. These inspections are aimed at ensuring that such vessels are maintained and operated in compliance with international safety standards laid down by the International Maritime Organisation. Deficiencies identified are brought to the attention of the owner and flag state administration and must be rectified before the ship continues its journey.

In relation to flags of convenience, I am advised that this practice, involving what is perceived as lenient regulatory requirements, is permissible under international law. The International Maritime Organisation is establishing internationally agreed safety and manning standards which are enforceable on ships calling at member states' ports. Also, the European Commission has developed proposals to mandate minimum conditions for the manning of ships using EU ports and for the hours worked by seafarers on such ships and these will come into effect before July 2002.

My Department's marine survey office ensures that Irish flagged vessels meet all relevant international and EU safety requirements. There is little merchant traffic inside the 12 mile Irish territorial limit and merchant vessels passing through or near Irish waters are generally travelling to or from Irish ports or UK west coast ports. Such ships would, of course, be subject to appropriate checks regarding their safety and documentation.