Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Feb 2002

Vol. 547 No. 4

Written Answers. - Marine Accidents.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

38 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the report prepared by the marine accident investigation department of the UK environmental department into the loss of the Arosa off the Connemara coast in October 2000; if a similar investigation has been carried out by the authorities here; if he intends to introduce new safety measures arising from the disaster; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3488/02]

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

The British registered fishing vessel Arosa sank off the Galway coast on 3 October 2000, with the loss of 12 lives. There was only one survivor. Under international maritime law, it is the responsibility of the flag state to carry out investigations into marine casualties involving their vessels. It was considered that, under the circumstances, there was no need for a separate investigation by the Irish authorities. The Marine Survey Office, MSO, assisted in the investigation providing all the relevant data to the UK inspector. The recently published report by the marine accident investigation branch of the United Kingdom Administration of its investigation into the loss of the Arosa, contained no safety recommendations. My Department is now examining the report and if any new safety measures are found to be necessary, I shall have them introduced as quickly as possible.