jd wrote:
Yeah, I got that . It's not clear to me what the effect will be on recreational boat anglers, and ain't getting much clarity from the department either!
I wouldn't hold your breath John I have been dealing with them for years clarity isn't too high on their agenda
I think it would be no harm to have a register of all boats as it is totally uncontrolled at present, but the shipping register is registered in tonnage & KWs which makes it an unnecessary expense for any recreational boat.
I also can't help thinking the government want this register not from a safety point of view which would be a good idea, but from a financial one ie: being the first step to introducing a pleasure boat tax not unlike motor tax
It might be worth contacting the Irish sailing association to get their views on it also as sailing boats will also be required to register from what little I understand of the bill.