Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 January 2017
696. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if it is compulsory for all boat users to complete a course and test in order to be provided with a licence to take to the water; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3801/17]
View answerI take it that the Deputy is referring primarily to the owners and users of pleasure craft. There are no current requirements for such owners and users to complete a course of instruction or hold a licence to operate such craft. However, it is recommended that a person taking to the water should undertake appropriate training for the type of craft being used. As outlined in the Maritime Safety Strategy 2015 -2019, regulation of recreational craft in Ireland is focused on the safe operation of craft, the provision of certain items of safety equipment, the carriage and use of personal flotation devices (lifejackets/buoyancy aids), and the manufacture and sale of safe recreational craft under the EU Recreational Craft and Personal Watercraft Directive. My Department promotes maritime safety awareness on an ongoing basis through Marine Notices, advice, guidance, safety publications and leaflets. A Code of Practice for the Safe Operation of Recreational Craft has been published by my Department and provides information on the legislation governing recreational craft as well as offering practical safety advice. Those engaged in leisure pursuits on the water are encouraged to be aware of and familiar with the contents of the Code of Practice and to comply with the safety requirements. The Code of Practice, which is currently under review, is available free of charge from my Department and is also available to view or download from the Department's website www.dttas.ie or www.safetyonthewater.ie. As regards the licensed, commercial passenger boat sector (i.e. vessels that carry no more than twelve passengers), there are certain specific requirements. In particular, a vessel may not be used as a passenger boat without a valid licence, and manning requirements are provided for in the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Boat Manning) Regulations 2005 (S.I. Number 649 of 2005) and as set out in Marine Notice Number 27 of 2005, which requires certification of the masters of such boats (and their crew in certain instances).
