Section 24 hinges on the need for full co-operation between parties involved in the salvage operation. In an instance where that co-operation is not available who has the power to over-ride any objecting party?

In the unlikely eventuality of no co-operation — it is in everybody's interest to have co-operation on this issue because it is a matter which affects them very seriosly — the Minister would have that power. That should not arise because this section gives the State the right to take into account the need for co-operation between the public authorities. It is in everyone's interest that the public authorities, the Department and everyone involved in the salvage operation would co-operate in order to relieve the situation as it developed. I do not see any problem in that.

We must cater for every eventuality. In the case of a person hindering or objecting to the State is the Minister satisfied that he has copper-fastened the powers of the officers concerned?

I am. This section makes it binding on authorities to co-operate.