Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 3 Jul 2001

Vol. 540 No. 1

Written Answers. - Marine Accidents.

Michael Joe Cosgrave

Ceist:

169 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if, in view of recent boating accidents with the tragic loss of lives, he has been in contact with the various harbour masters to review the situation and to contact the various yacht clubs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19957/01]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

The recent tragic accident which resulted from a collision in Dublin Bay involving a merchant ship and a yacht is currently being investigated under the Merchant Shipping Acts. As the Deputy will appreciate, 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. If, arising from the investigation, additional safety measures are found to be necessary, I shall have them brought in as quickly as possible.

All sea-going vessels are required to comply with the international regulations for preventing collision at sea which are in effect the "rules of the road" for the sea. Furthermore, my Department's marine safety working group is continuing to promote maritime safety awareness. This working group devises and communicates safety information and guidelines through safety campaigns and the publication and dissemination of posters and booklets. The Irish Sailing Association is represented on the group and it circulates the group's publications to its affiliated clubs and to recognised teaching establishments. The group organised the year 2000 safety on the water campaign which had the aim of getting the safety message to as many water users as possible and this year the group is hoping its follow-up campaign will reach an even wider audience.