The Maritime Safety Bill 2004 was published on 23 June 2004. The Bill establishes a new legislative framework to regulate certain fast powered watercraft, including jet skis. It was introduced in Seanad Éireann and passed Second Stage on 30 June 2004. At present no date has been set for Committee Stage.
The maritime safety directorate is organising a seminar on the Maritime Safety Bill to be held on Wednesday, 13 October 2004 in the Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone. Representatives of local authorities and others who will have responsibility for the implementation of the provisions of the Maritime Safety Bill 2004 have been invited to attend.
The main purpose of the seminar is to outline the background and provisions of the Bill and to facilitate discussion and an exchange of information on the implementation of the provisions of the Bill once enacted, with particular emphasis on the by-law making powers of local and harbour authorities.