As a result of the new provisions, exemptions from the requirement to register will apply in future only to recreational craft less than 24 m in load line length, other than personal watercraft and small fast-powered craft, and to warships.
The saintly Leo Varadkar speaking in the Senate on the second stage of the debate on the Merchant Shipping (Registration of Ships) Bill 2013 on 15 April 2014.
Feargal Quinn said:
[…] I have previously mentioned the lack of a small ships register in this country. Therefore, it is impossible to trace the ownership of most private boats unless they have a current free Shannon licence. […] Specifically, I note that this Bill will not include recreational craft less than 24 m in load line length, other than personal watercraft and small fast powered craft, which are required to register, and that warships will not be required to register. Can the Minister elaborate on whether we could move towards having a small ships register and not only one for merchant shipping? […]
Are there any plans by the Government to adopt the UK model in this country, whereby every boat on the waterways must have a boat safety certificate, which includes checks on gas and fuel lines and such matters?
St Leo said (amongt other things):
Senators Quinn and Naughton asked about a small ships register. As far as I understand it, this legislation does not provide for the creation of a small ships register, although it provides for one register with different parts. I see the point being made and will consider it. To the best of my knowledge there is no requirement for mandatory insurance, but I will revert on the issue.
Irish waterways history 