James Browne
Question:697. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if it is compulsory for all pleasure craft users to wear life jackets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3802/17]
View answerTuesday, 31 January 2017
Questions (697, 702)
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:702. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the need for all pleasure craft users regardless of age to wear a lifejacket; and his plans to improve safety in use of pleasure crafts. [4058/17]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 697 and 702 together.
The requirements in relation to the wearing of Personal Flotation Devices (lifejackets/buoyancy aids) on pleasure craft are set out in the Pleasure Craft Regulations of 2005 (S.I. No. 921 of 2005), as amended by S.I. No. 349 of 2012.
The master or owner of a pleasure craft must ensure that there are sufficient suitable Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) available at all times on board the craft for each person on board. The regulations also set out provisions relating to the wearing of PFDs.
There are certain exceptions for where the craft is being used for rescue, emergency or law enforcement, and for rowers in boats which are designed and specifically used in boat races or other events. Failure to comply with the PFD requirements is an offence.
While not a requirement of the regulations, my Department recommends that (i) anyone using a pleasure craft alone should wear a PFD at all times regardless of weather conditions, the size of the craft or whether it is made fast to the shore or at anchor, and (ii) persons should wear lifejackets at all times while on open decked vessels over 7 metres length that are not fitted with inherent buoyancy.
There are no plans to revise the PFD regulations in relation to pleasure craft. The provisions relating to wearing PFD on pleasure craft of less than 7 metres length include all the high risk classes of craft such as dinghies, jet skis, open sail boats, small motor boats, etc. Pleasure craft of 7 metres length and greater generally offer improved safety and stability features. The requirement to wear a PFD by a person under 16, regardless of the length of the craft, contributes to the education of those using pleasure craft from an early age.