Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

This new section 34 arises out of the detailed discussion about the scope of the Bill held in this House on Committee Stage. It is recommended by the Parliamentary Counsel and colleagues in the Attorney General's office to rule out frivolous or vexatious litigation. This makes clear that Part 3 of the Bill is designed to promote the safe operation of all vessels other than a limited number of dedicated vessels, namely, those in the service of the Defence Forces and the customs, coastguard or rescue services, for which there are separate provisions in place to ensure proper practices are followed.