The operation of jet skis and other high-powered leisure watercraft in areas where bathing takes place, in harbours and other places frequented by water users has been a matter of particular concern to me. A key objective of mine is that local authorities should adopt bye-laws for the safe operation of jet skis in their areas of responsibility and, to this end, my Department has been encouraging all local authorities to adopt suitable bye-laws. To date, nine local authorities have done so and a number of others are considering them.
A legal issue has arisen regarding the making of these bye-laws in respect of water areas not directly under the control of a local authority. My Department held discussions with officials from the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on the matter. As a result of these discussions I intend to introduce a comprehensive legislative package this year to assist local authorities in adopting regulations relating to the operation of jet skis in any waters within their jurisdiction where such controls are required.