Seanad debates

Tuesday, 7 October 2003

Order of Business: Motion. - Oil Pollution of the Sea (Civil Liability and Compensation) (Amendment) Bill 2003: Second Stage.

 

The Minister went to Norway when we were getting our new research vessel and spoke in detail about our level of pollution preparedness. However, I do not think we have the resources and we were fortunate in Donegal. One was watching the wind direction to see if there was any potential risk to the coastline. I often wonder if we are prepared in this country, because while I agree with the Minister that the whole area of maritime safety has improved, according to the 1999 report the zone covering Donegal, Mayo and Galway was regarded as a high risk area. At any stage approximately 20 vessels are en route to harbours and approximately 100 fishing boats are in that zone. It is important to have pollution preparedness in place and when the Minister is summing up perhaps he can reassure us that it is in place and that resources are available.

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