Youghal jet-ski tragedy weeks before new regulations

Tougher regulations over the use of jet-skis in Youghal Harbour were just weeks from being adopted when a teenager was killed and two others injured in a boating accident in the area, it has emerged.

Patrick Daly (15) of Greencloyne, Youghal, died after his jet-ski collided with a boat towing a dinghy in Youghal Harbour at about 8.30 p.m. He was pronounced dead on the quayside after his body was recovered from the water.

The injured driver of the boat is being treated at Cork University Hospital; the 36-year-old's condition is "stable."

A third man, in his late twenties, was not seriously hurt but is being treated for shock.

Gardaí and the Marine Investigation Authority have begun investigations into the collision.

The use of jet-skis in the harbour has been the subject of much concern recently, and the issue has been raised during numerous Youghal Town Council meetings.

Jet-ski use by persons under the age of 16 is forbidden by law. It is understood that in this case the jet-ski was privately owned - but it was not thought to belong to the teenager.

Speaking to ireland.comtoday Youghal Town Clerk, Mr Liam Ryan offered his condolences to all involved in the tragedy.

According to Mr Ryan, a "code of practice" on the use of jet-skis implemented by Youghal Town Council has been in operation since 1998.

However, it became clear that the code was not being adhered to and plans were drawn up by the Council to implement new by-laws in which the code would play an "integral part".

Draft proposals were presented at the May meeting of the Council and set aside for a "public consultation period" over June and July; the laws were expected to be adopted in September.

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Mr Dermot Ahern recently announced a new code of practice, to be given statutory effect, on water safety and particularly the use of "pleasure craft".

At the time, Mr Ahern said. "It is time that everyone faces up to the responsibility which attaches to water activities. The purpose of the new Regulations and Code of Practice will be to ensure that this happens".