Vol. 535 No. 4
81 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself with the procedures and inspections of passenger vessels and their berthing locations in the interest of public safety especially where passengers are carried for hire or reward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11649/01]
All Irish passenger vessels are surveyed regularly, either annually or every two years, by my Department's marine survey office to ensure compliance with rigorous safety standards. These standards are determined nationally in the case of vessels carrying fewer than 12 passengers or nationally, by the European Union and the International Maritime Organisation in the case of other vessels. Before licences or certificates are issued in respect of passenger vessels, berthing locations are examined to determine their suitability. The safety regime in place meets the highest international standards and is subject to continual review and improvement.
