Maritime Safety

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 March 2023

Thursday, 23 March 2023

Questions (182)

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

182. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide details on whether a load line survey application has been applied for with respect to the hebble dredge ship which is long overdue to be removed from the River Boyne in Drogheda following its sinking in 2022; if he will provide any further details with regard to projected dates of removal and any details regarding the application and certification that is required prior to release; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14379/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Regarding this particular vessel, whilst it is lying inoperative in the port of Drogheda, it falls to the owner and to Drogheda Port Company, in whose area the vessel is located, to address any issues that arise. Any proposal or schedule to move the vessel are matters for the owner of the vessel to address. Before a vessel proceeds to sea it is required to undergo a Load Line survey. It is the responsibility of the vessel owners, or agents acting on their behalf, to apply for and ensure that vessels under go such surveys and the Marine Survey Office is not in a position to comment as to whether an owner has made an application.