Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 May 2001

Vol. 535 No. 4

Written Answers - Water Pollution.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has taken an initiative at international level with the objective of preventing pollution caused by oil tankers on the high seas, with particular reference to the quality and standard of the vessels concerned and the crews on board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13025/01]

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

My Department has always taken a full and active part both at EU and international level in relation to the prevention of pollution at sea.

The Erika incident, which occurred in December 1999, has served to focus the minds of concerned parties in all countries on the importance of effective measures.

The increased awareness that has occurred has led to the agreement at the marine environment protection committee of the International Maritime Organisation, in which Department officials participated, on the phasing out of certain single-hulled tankers by 2015 in favour of double-hulled types.

In general, during the past 20 years or so, since the introduction of the International Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution – MARPOL – to which Ireland is a party, there has been a marked reduction in the pollution resulting from operational activities of ships.

In accordance with the EU directive on port state control inspections, officers of the Department inspect foreign vessels, including tankers, entering our ports, their focus being on pollution prevention, safety-related matters and crew ability and competence. When deficiencies are noted, the vessel may be detained.

I am pleased to be able to advise that Ireland, following an evaluation by a panel of competent experts, has been found by the International Maritime Organisation to be adhering fully to the provisions of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1995 – STCW 95 – and is now on the "white list" or top rank of countries in this regard.

Question No. 120 answered with Question No. 106.