One of the many extraordinary facts that emerged as a result of the Zeebrugge ferry disaster was the under-estimation of the passenger list and the cargo being carried. Does the Minister think we may have a problem in this regard in relation to a State company, that we may not have full details of passengers or cargo?

On occasion people who have not paid their way have been found on board and that has been reported in the newspapers. After the Zeebrugge disaster I got in touch immediately with all the ferry companies operating into and out of Ireland and asked for assurances with regard to safety. I did not ask about the numbers, my main concern being to have as many as possible on board but, of course, not beyond the regulations.

Can the Minister indicate whether B & I will take part in any studies that may be necessary into this whole area of shipping as a result of the Zeebrugge disaster?

I got an assurance and a detailed answer to my queries at that time which indicated that great care is taken by both ICL and B & I with regard to the safety of passengers in a way which, apparently, was not true of the boat that unfortunately sank at Zeebrugge.