Joe O'Toole (Independent)

Ba mhaith liom cur leis na focail atá ráite ag na daoine eile anseo. Gan amhras, tá an Bille seo thar barr. Tá a lán rudaí nua ann, agus braithim gur féidir linn an-dul chun cinn a dhéanamh i gcúrsaí sábháilteachta. It is important that we attempt to ensure this legislation is enacted before the summer, if only for the propaganda value of raising awareness as Senator Feighan observed. This would signify a clear new beginning for the new boating season which starts at this time of year. The Government should be mindful of the importance of this.

I reiterate the sentiments of my colleagues in thanking the Minister of State and his officials for the work that has been put into this legislation. The officials in particular can take a bow for their achievement. This Bill is an example of the type of legislation which it is better to initiate in this House. That approach allows the issues to be spun out and facilitates a softer and less confrontational debate. This is the manner in which legislation should be put together.

This is an important Bill and the Minister of State is to be applauded for his role in its development. Incidentally, I look forward to his responses on the issue of local sea-area weather forecasts and the question of registration and new soundings on new lakes. I wish the Bill well on its journey through the other House.