Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 255: To ask the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied that all appropriate investigative procedures were followed by the relevant authorities after the drowning of persons (details supplied) on 14 March 2008. [18560/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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I would at the outset like to convey my sympathies to the family on their tragic losses.

I understand that the Marine Casualty Investigation Board (MCIB) has initiated an investigation to find out what may have caused the incident. MCIB investigations do not apportion blame for incidents but seek to make recommendations that will prevent such incidents occurring in the future. As the MCIB are independent of me in the exercise of their functions it is inappropriate to comment on their investigation.

I also wish to advise that officials from my Department have reviewed this casualty to determine if there was a breach of any statutory regulations or requirements. I am satisfied that the relevant authorities under my remit have initiated the appropriate investigation procedures in this case.