Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2021
232. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Transport if he plans to enact legislation to address the shortcoming identified in the Clinch report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53101/21]
View answerClinchmaritime Ltd. were commissioned by my Department to conduct a review of current organisational structures underpinning marine accident investigation in Ireland in the context of national, EU and international obligations. The intention to commission that review was mentioned by me when appearing at the Committee on Transport and Communications - the review was not requested by that Committee.
Secondly, the review was commissioned following an adverse judgment from the Court of Justice of the European Union in relation to the composition of the Board of the Marine Casualty Investigation Board (the issue being the presence of Departmental officials on the Board - a matter which has been dealt with). Finally, it is incorrect to link that ruling, on the composition of a Board established in 2002, with the Whiddy Island disaster that occurred in 1979.
My Department has received the final report from Clinchmaritime Ltd. and it is currently being considered by Departmental officials. In addition, the Department is continuing to engage with the Office of the Attorney General (AGO) to obtain legal advice on certain aspects of the report. Policy proposals to address the recommendations of the report, including the enactment of legislation if required, will be developed in due course.
