Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

This is a very serious issue. I agree with my colleague, Senator Glynn, that proper regulation is required for jet skiing and water skiing on our inland waterways and at sea. I should declare an interest at the outset — I am an avid water ski enthusiast and I own a jet ski.

The activities under discussion have resulted in fatalities and serious injuries throughout the country, for example in Senator Glynn's home county. There was a fatality in Mullaghmore, County Sligo, some years ago as a consequence of this activity. Many people like me would be more than happy to operate in line with clearly defined regulations and parameters, which need to be introduced. There are rogues in every area of activity, however, and this activity is no different so it needs to be properly legislated for and properly regulated. It does not matter if it is policed by the local authorities, or by the fisheries officers who operate in these areas.

Genuine people who want to participate in angling, jet skiing or swimming should be given clearly defined and properly policed areas in which to do so. Not only would such measures represent a serious improvement in the context of health and safety, but they would also help us to market our inland waterways, lakes and coastal areas. This is a central aspect of tapping into a resource that has not yet been tapped into. We have under-utilised these resources to a significant degree in the past. Health and safety matters need to be top of the agenda. This area needs to be properly resourced, in the interests of anglers, swimmers and other groups. I appeal to the Minister, Deputy Dermot Ahern, just as Senator Glynn has done. I am aware that legislation is due to come before the House and I look forward to discussing it. I hope the Bill that is brought forward will contain the appropriate measures needed to protect those who participate in the various activities on our waterways.