Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Acting Chairman for the opportunity to speak on this new legislation, the Merchant Shipping (Registration of Ships) Bill 2013. I welcome this debate as everyone must be vigilant in respect of shipping vessels, but I also believe in the importance of the seas, the fishing industry and the huge potential to develop further Ireland's tourism industry based on an island economy. It is important to make such points with regard to this legislation. Before coming to the details of this legislation, it is important to put down a few markers about the importance of the sea and of shipping in general. It is also important to highlight the issue of safety for sailors and fishermen, as well as the issue of the coast being used by gangs to bring in drugs to this country and as a gateway to the rest of Europe. This also is an issue which Members must keep an eye on. I also represent a coastal constituency, the new constituency of Dublin Bay North, which stretches from Fairview through Clontarf and Sutton out as far as Howth, and consequently I will keep a close eye on all issues relating to the sea and on legislation like this Merchant Shipping (Registration of Ships) Bill.

When one considers the details of this legislation carefully, one will note the purpose of the Bill is to update, restate and clarify the law on the registration of vessels. Ship registration is the process by which a ship is documented, flagged and given nationality.

The nationality allows a ship to travel internationally as it is proof of ownership of the vessel. Ship registration applies to both domestic and international ships. The Bill expands the categories of vessels to be registered. This is a welcome provision.

As I mentioned I represent a very important valuable State asset which is Dublin Bay and which is important to the people of Clontarf but also to the nation. For many years we had to fight to preserve Dublin Bay, in particular the 52 acres. The former Independent Deputy for my area was the great Seán Dublin Bay Loftus. He was elected on that issue. I wish to reassure the Minister and the Government that the tradition will continue. We will fight to protect and defend Dublin Bay at all costs. In City Hall we have people like Councillor Damien O'Farrell, the new Independent councillor who had the highest vote in the local elections in Dublin city. He will also be a watchdog in the protection of Dublin Bay.

A number of my colleagues spoke about the issue of safety in the seas with particular reference to the use of jet skis which is becoming out of control. There is a potential for more accidents if the use of jet skis is not regulated in bays and harbours and as I noted in Lough Derg, on our lakes. Public safety must be the priority and we need to keep a close eye on these Speedy Gonzalez merchants who sometimes exploit our bays, rivers and lakes.

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