Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 83: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to act on the recommendations of the report of the marine casualty investigations board into the loss of four crew from a yacht (details supplied) on 20 May 2001, particularly in regard to the dangers of consumption of alcohol by masters and crew; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8192/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The recommendations referred to by the Deputy were outlined in a report of the marine casualty investigation board on the tragic incident which involved the collision between the yacht Debonair and the cargo vessel Bluebird in Dublin Bay on 20 May 2001 with the loss of four lives. The report was published on 3 March 2005. I convey my sympathies to the families of the four victims on their tragic losses. The recommendations are being examined in my Department. If necessary, I will bring forward appropriate measures to address any shortcomings in the statutory bases either of the regimes governing alcohol consumption on vessels or the enforcement arrangements.

Section 24 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1992 makes it an offence for the master and other crew members of cargo vessels to be on duty while under the influence of alcohol. The Merchant Shipping (Pleasure Craft) (Lifejackets and Operation) (Safety) Regulations 2004, which came into effect on 2 June 2004, provide for controls on the operation of pleasure craft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In particular, it states that the master or owner of a pleasure craft shall not or shall not allow another to operate or control or attempt to operate or control the craft while he or she or the other is under the influence of alcohol or drugs or any combination of drugs or of drugs and alcohol to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the craft.