A new code on safe operation of recreational craft - the first of its type published by the State - sets out current legislative requirements governing such craft. It also provides details and information on best practice in relation to safety.
The main emphasis is on "education" and "awareness raising", rather than over-regulation, the Minister of State for Transport, Pat the "Cope" Gallagher, said. However, legislation has been introduced during the lifetime of this Government, such as that on compulsory use of lifejackets or personal flotation devices on boats of less than seven metres (23 feet) in length. All children up to the age of 16 must also wear such safety equipment.
The new code applies to all recreational craft operating in coastal and inland waters whether used for competitive or non-competitive purposes. It covers sailing craft, including windsurfers, motorboats, ski boats, craft propelled using outboard engines, personal watercraft, canoes, kayaks and non-powered craft.
Owners and operators of recreational craft must ensure that a vessel is properly maintained, equipped and operated, and the code will assist them in this, Mr Gallagher said. He hopes that the number of incidents involving pleasure craft will fall as a result of the initiative.
Such incidents rose from 189 in 1994 to 525 in 2005, according to Irish Coast Guard figures, and there was a 15 per cent increase in call-outs over the past year from leisure craft.
The code has been welcomed by Irish Water Safety, which is hosting next week's water safety week, and by the Irish Marine Federation. Lieut-Cdr John Leech, Irish Water Safety's chief executive, said that it had benefited from two rounds of consultation and was very well written and "user-friendly".
Irish Marine Federation chief executive Steven Conlin said that the code was very well put together, and he would hope that the Government would underpin its commitment to it with a number of initiatives. This should include a reduction on VAT on marine safety equipment, a drive to collect out-of-date emergency flares and a focus on education. The new code is available on the Department of Transport's website, under Maritime Safety Directorate, at www.transport.gov.ie