Vol. 571 No. 4
342 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of additional staff who were allocated following his announcement on 29 May 2003 of increased safety spot checks on passenger boats in the summer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22143/03]
On 29 May 2003, I announced that my Department would carry out a campaign of operational safety inspections on passenger ships and boats this summer. Three marine surveyors from the maritime safety directorate of my Department were specifically assigned to this work and, in addition, all other surveyors extended the range of inspections carried out in the course of their duties. These inspections, including unannounced checks, were undertaken around the country in relation to vessels at sea and on inland waters to determine compliance with licensing requirements. Licence conditions relating to manning levels, maximum passenger numbers allowed, the continued availability of safety equipment were among the issues which the inspectors focussed on.
As part of its ongoing programme of enforcement of safety rules and vessel licensing conditions, the maritime safety directorate will incorporate a similar programme of inspections undertaken this year into its future operational plans.
Question No. 343 answered with Question No. 154.
