John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Ms Cassidy for her presentation and wish her well in the task ahead. Her presentation answered many of the questions we might have had because it is so thorough. As Deputy Harrington said, the theme of independence is coming through loud and clear. I note also that Ms Cassidy actually applied for this job. In the past there would have been situations where people were head-hunted or friends were appointed, so I want to note and welcome the fact that Ms Cassidy's independence is copper-fastened by the fact she applied for this post.

She mentioned that she sees her role as independent to ensure fair procedures are followed in investigations. If she believes fair procedures are not being followed, what powers does she have and what action can she take to ensure that procedures are fair? Does the board's role differ when it is investigating incidents involving international vessels compared to cases involving Irish vessels? Does it liaise with international bodies at that stage?

Ms Cassidy and Deputy Ellis mentioned leisure boating accidents and the dangers involved in leisure boating because it may be less controlled than other forms of boating. Is that a problem?