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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 14 Jun 2001

Vol. 538 No. 2

Written Answers. - Marine Accidents.

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

14 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the investigation which has been held into the recent collision in Dublin Bay between a cargo vessel and a yacht in which three people died; if changes are planned to safety procedures arising from the accident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17390/01]

Michael Bell

Ceist:

33 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the result of the investi gation into the tragic accident in Dublin harbour and the serious loss of life; the number of those involved who had the required safety equipment fitted prior to the accident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15546/01]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 33 together

I take this opportunity to once again express my sympathies with the families and friends of the four people who lost their lives as a result of this terrible tragedy.

The investigation, under the Merchant Shipping Acts, into the collision in Dublin bay between the merchant ship Bluebird and the yacht Debonair is currently under way. The Deputies will appreciate that it would not be proper at this time to discuss this matter further until the investigation is complete and the inspectors have made their report to me. In accordance with normal practice the report into the accident will be published following legal vetting and the application of natural justice procedures.

With regard to safety equipment on board the vessels involved in the collision, this again will be clarified as part of the investigation.

The safety procedures currently in place in Dublin are in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea. If, arising from the investigation, additional safety measures are found to be necessary, I shall have them brought in as quickly as possible.

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