Joanne Collins (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 12:

In page 14, between lines 19 and 20, to insert the following: “(4) The annual report will also identify the safety recommendations issued and action (by whatever body or authority) taken or planned in accordance with recommendations issued previously.”.

Amendment No. 12, is all about strengthening co-operation between the MAIU and other authorities. When a maritime accident occurs, multiple agencies may be involved, whether it is An Garda Síochána in the case of criminal investigations, authorities identifying victims, or international bodies with a stake in the incident. This amendment would impose a duty on investigators to co-operate fully with these authorities, ensuring that investigations are not carried out in silos. This amendment also introduces a clear protocol for handling incidents where there may be evidence of unlawful interference or criminal activity. If investigators suspect foul play, they must be required to immediately notify the appropriate security and law enforcement agencies, both in Ireland and internationally. This is a critical safeguard to ensure that serious incidents are not treated solely as safety matters when there may be broader issues of concern.

Furthermore, this amendment will familiarise people with how the national accident investigation office should collaborate with other agencies, which includes issues such as evidence collection, site management and witness interviews. Having clear written protocols in place will prevent jurisdictional conflicts and ensure the investigations proceed smoothly and effectively.