Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 May 2014
979. Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will examine a case (details supplied); if his Department can assist or provide guidance in having this vessel registered a 345 kW on the on the Irish registry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22671/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe following is the position in relation to the case raised by the Deputy. Before registration in Ireland a vessel must comply with the relevant Irish and EU Regulations. In relation to the kilowatt issue, EU regulations introduced mandatory changes to the arrangements for certification of propulsion engine power for fishing vessels whose propulsion engine power exceeds 120 kilowatts (kW). The Marine Survey Office (MSO) of my Department is the competent authority for certification of engine power in accordance with these requirements.
The MSO understands that the vessel in question was registered as a UK fishing vessel prior to January 2014 with a registered power of 403kW. Documentation submitted to the MSO to date, while indicating a de-rating of 345kW, refers to compliance with UK legislation that predates the relevant EU regulations by several years and does not confirm that the maximum power has been determined in accordance with the more recent EU-wide requirements. The MSO is currently seeking clarification from the UK authorities in relation to the certification of the engine power and has informed the vessel owner of this situation.
