Regulations on the use of jet-skis, speedboats and other fast water craft may be introduced as part of a safety initiative by the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources.
Dr Woods has set up an action group to devise policies and practical measures after several accidents involving jet-skis and other craft in recent months. Last month a Belfast man died in Sligo General Hospital after he was injured in a jet-ski accident at Mullaghmore. Mr Glen O'Hare (19) was riding a jet-ski with a water-skier in tow when his craft collided with another pleasure craft in the harbour.
The same weekend, Ms Sabrina Gannon (18), from Ballybough, Dublin, died in Spain from injuries she sustained when a jet-ski she was riding in the resort of Torremolinos veered out of control. It is understood it was her first time on such a craft.
A jet-ski is potentially as dangerous as a 1,200cc motorcycle but requires no licence, insurance or experience for use. Fingal County Council has already introduced by-laws prohibiting their use on the north Dublin coast.
The Minister's action group will include representatives of the relevant agencies and Government Departments, and nominees from the marine leisure sector. It will have particular regard to a forthcoming Marine Institute report on regulations in marine leisure, and to initiatives on zoning undertaken by local authorities along the coastline.
Dr Woods said his basic aim was to "stop irresponsible behaviour by a small number of fast craft users, to protect the safety of other water users and to end the severe nuisance and distress being caused in certain locations".
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