Atkins Report Published

The Commissioners of Irish Lights (CIL) welcome the publication of the report by external consultants WS Atkins and their recommendations for the provision of marine aids to navigation around the coasts of the UK and Ireland. CIL believes it will serve as an excellent long-term blueprint for ensuring continuing maritime safety. This comprehensive Report was commissioned by the UK's Department for Transport and the Irish Department of Transport and makes some 50 recommendations. While supporting the continuation of the three separate General Lighthouse Authorities (GLAs) of Northern Lights, Irish Lights and Trinity House, one of the main recommendations is the introduction of an empowered Joint Strategic Board which will drive through the efficiencies and synergies that the three authorities can achieve by working more closely together. The GLAs particularly welcome this development which will further increase the productive co-ordination and co-operation that already exists. A recommendation particular to Ireland is the development of a "roadmap" agreed with the Irish Government on the sustainable financing of the Commissioners of Irish Lights. This sets out an incentivised financial model, which retains the all-Ireland cross border model and sets out a framework towards self financing. The report also contains recommendations concerning the management of the General Lighthouse Fund (GLF) and the charging of light dues. The GLAs are responsible for ensuring maritime safety in some of the world's most dangerous coastlines and are pleased that the report recognises that the organisations have consistently reduced costs whilst maintaining the highest levels of safety.

CIL Chief Executive, Dr. Stuart Ruttle, commented:

"In this our bi-centenary year, it should be noted that CIL's long history has been dedicated to the safety of the mariner. We also pride ourselves on being at the forefront of today's navigational technology. Safety is always our overriding concern but we are also very aware of our obligations to Government and the shipping industry to minimise costs and to deliver value-for-money. Many of the recommendations in this report can be implemented quickly. Others will prove challenging and we will need to consult widely on some before deciding how to proceed. Nevertheless I welcome the Atkins report, which offers a blueprint for the future provision, management and funding of aids to navigation and balances the risks to ensure safe maritime transport for many years to come."

Atkins Reports on the provision of marine aids around the UK and Ireland