Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
160. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport if he will commit to the ratification of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 2009, in the coming legislative term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46286/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn many instances the introduction of primary legislation is necessary prior to the ratification of an international convention by the State; this is true of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (the Hong Kong Convention).
My Department is currently working to progress a Merchant Shipping (International Conventions) Bill to give effect to several international Conventions related to fishing vessel safety, training, working and living conditions for fishers. Ratification of the Hong Kong Convention is included in the Department's legislative programme and will be part of a future Merchant Shipping (Environmental International Conventions) Bill. Given the complex nature of the Bill and the need to review existing legislation relating to the recycling of ships it is not possible to provide a definitive timeline for the completion of the Bill at this stage but it will not be within the coming legislative term.
