Maritime Safety Regulations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 7 September 2018

Friday, 7 September 2018

Questions (1108)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

1108. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the details of applications to have boats surveyed to assess their suitability to operate as passenger vessels received by the Marine Survey Office in 2017 and to date in 2018; the dates on which all applications were received by the office; the dates on which a determination was made in respect of same; in the case of outstanding applications the date on which a decision will issue; the average turnaround time for applications, that is, the length of time between applications first being received by the office and a decision issuing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36187/18]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

It is not possible in the timeframe to answer the Deputy's question as it would involve the individual inspection of approximately 800 surveys and associated records. For clarity, surveys carried out by the MSO can be very extensive, spanning several months for larger new-build vessels. Surveys are processes and are not single events and can involve a number of surveyors from the MSO specialising in different aspects. They include the owner, the crew and specialist companies such as shipyards representing the owner and ship designers.These surveys also include inspections under various statutory instruments which the MSO has responsibility for. While my Department is happy to assist the Deputy in this matter, it would be helpful to clarify whether the issue relates to a specific vessel survey. My Department will be in contact to seek further clarification on the scope of your question and hopefully avoid any unnecessary administrative costs in replying.