70 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for the Marine if a coherent policy is now in place for improved maritime safety and pollution prevention relating to European Community waters; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am glad to be able to inform the Deputy that the Commission's recent communication on "A Common Policy on Safe Seas" has been welcomed by all member states. The policy objectives and main initiatives set out in the Commission's communication will be formally endorsed by the Council of Ministers in early June when a resolution to this effect will be fully debated.