Vol. 533 No. 1
61 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the investigation which has been held into the incident on a vessel (details supplied); if he has satisfied himself that safety procedures for the transport of dangerous chemicals on passenger vessels are adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8117/01]
The investigation into this incident, involving the UK registered Stena Challenger, is being carried out by the UK authorities. Under international law, it is the responsibility of the flag State to carry out investigations into marine casualties involving its vessels.
All dangerous goods carried by sea are subject to the stringent provisions of the international maritime dangerous goods – IMDG – code to which all vessels, including passenger vessels, must comply. I am advised that provided the IMDG code is complied with, the procedures for the carriage of permitted chemicals on passenger vessels are adequate.
