Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator David Norris. The powers set out in the section are aimed specifically at boat users and no others. Concerns have been expressed about the powers authorised officers will have under the section. For example, the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland is of the view that they are excessive and prohibitive. The concern seems to be that boat users risk being exposed to the impersonation of officers in terms of being stopped and boats being robbed, etc. I am not sure how those fears can be addressed and allayed. This applies particularly to vulnerable boat users where persons impersonate officers and stop boats along a canal. Amendment No. 45 seeks to ensure an officer acting on behalf of Waterways Ireland would be compelled to produce evidence not only of his or her identity but also of the by-laws or the section of the legislation under which the boat user was being stopped.

The other issue is safety on board a vessel. The master ultimately has responsibility not only for the vessel but also for the passengers and crew. If the vessel is being stopped, pulled in or detained, does that compromise the safety of passengers on board?

These are some of the concerns being expressed and I am sure they have been articulated to the Department by, for example, the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland. That is the general thrust of thee amendments.