Vol. 434 No. 10
78 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for the Marine if he has satisfied himself with the level of crewing and the technical competence of tug operators in Irish ports; if there are inspection staff in his Department to oversee tug operators and, if so, if he will give the frequency individual tugs are inspected for safety, manning and competence.
The operations of tugs within the jurisdiction of Harbour Authorities is a matter in the first instance for the Harbour Authorities concerned who are empowered to make by-laws, subject to Ministerial approval, to regulate the operations of tugs within their jurisdiction. These by-laws regulate tug operations within port areas and lay down standards in relation to the equipment manning, maintenance, power and insurance.
The Department's Marine Survey Office surveys and certifies tugs to ensure compliance with Safety Equipment, Loadline and Tonnage requirements. The Department also stipulates the certification requirments for deck and engineer officers on board such tugs. In general tugs require to be inspected on an annual basis.
I am satisfied with the level of crewing and technical competence of tug operators in Irish ports.
