James Carroll (Fianna Fail)

This is my first opportunity since being elected to the House to be here with the Minister present.

In many aspects the Merchant Shipping Bill is like a miscellaneous provisions Bill in that it ties in other elements that are needed. The Merchant Shipping Bill is vital legislation. It has a strategy for two elements but primarily maritime safety. The Bill, which was published last May, is primarily about Irish ships and ships in Irish waters. Senator Donohoe said that not many maritime issues arise in Dublin Central but it is interesting to see the various elements within this Bill.

The Bill has two layers, so to speak, primarily national and international. We studied international public law in UCD and a key element of that was the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, an audit of which is due to be done in September. This is vital legislation in that it covers the legislative provisions in place. In that international audit we will be asked about the provisions we have put in place, and this Bill will be a key element of that. I look forward to the enabling features of this Bill being put in place.

A key aim of the Bill is to improve the safety of life at sea and as Senator Ellis stated, a key element of that is access for people with reduced mobility. That is important.