Ceist:
41 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources when he will bring forward proposals for a national coastguard agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3806/99]
Written Answers. - Marine Emergency Service.
The matters relating to the development of IMES as a national coastguard agency are being considered at present. Work is in progress on the preparation of legislation – a marine emergency service – which would give the service a firm legislative base and statutory duty of responsibility for all activities associated with the discharge of its remit. This includes search and rescue in maritime and inland waters, responding to oil pollution, monitoring and control of threats to the marine environment, salvage and wreck response and safety awareness.