James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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191. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the resources his Department dedicates to the removal of old boats, specifically at a harbour (details supplied); the powers local authorities possess in compelling the removal of old boats; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51370/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I assume the deputy is referring to vessels which would be considered wrecks. No resources in this Department are specifically assigned for the purpose of the removal of wrecks.

The relevant legislation under my remit which applies to wrecks is the Merchant Shipping (Salvage and Wreck) Act, 1993 and in particular ss. 51-52. In sum these set out the duty of the owner to remove or make safe obstructive wrecks and the powers of the appropriate authority to issue instructions in this regard, and if they are not complied with, to take the wreck in hand themselves. The owners of the wrecks are responsible for any costs arising from the authority’s actions. 

I believe the appropriate authority in this case is Wexford County Council.

The Deputy may also wish to refer to earlier questions on these matters: 29818/15, 37396/15, 45550/15.