Vol. 539 No. 1
99 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources when he will make regulations under the Merchant Shipping (Investigation of Marine Casualties) Act, 2000, which would permit local authorities to introduce effective by-laws to enable them to control power boats and jet skis on lakes throughout their jurisdiction particularly from the point of view of ensuring safety on the lakes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18939/01]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that I will shortly be introducing an initial phase of regulations which have been developed by my Department as a result of the recommendations made by the Action Group on Small Powered Recreational Craft. These regulations will contain national provisions governing the safe use of personal water craft – jet skis, fast power craft and other mechanically propelled pleasure craft and will take effect from 1 July 2001. In principle, the regulations will include, inter alia, provisions relating to age restrictions, the carriage and use of lifejackets, restrictions on the use of alcohol and drugs as well as provisions relating to the careless and dangerous driving of such craft.
In addition, the Merchant Shipping (Jet Skis and Fast Power Boats) Regulations, 1992 (S.I. 387 of 1992) will be revoked under the new regulations, thereby removing any possible legal impediment to local authorities enacting by-laws under the Local Government Act, 1994, to control the use of fast power craft and personal water craft in the areas, including lakes, under their jurisdiction. Indeed, I understand that a number of authorities have already introduced by-laws under this legislation in time for the current summer season.
