Regulations For Safety Of Small Craft Likely

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28907, 29 May 1959, Page 13

Regulations For Safety Of Small Craft Likely

fNew Zea and Press Association)

AUCKLAND, May 28. “I am deeply concerned at the number of yachts and other craft which, from time to time, have been reported missing off the New Zealand coast.” said the Minister of Marine (Mr Fox) in Auckland tonight. “Some have been found, but unfortunately others have never been recovered, and there has been considerable loss of life. The problem was’ most complex and, although all trading vessels as such, were not cleared from any port unless completely sound, the condition of many of the smaller craft which left New Zealand ports was not subject to control. It seemed imperative that action must be taken to ensure that all reasonable safety measures were carried out before small craft embarked upon what might become hazardous sea journeys. “I would like to congratulate the various yacht clubs throughout New Zealand, who have beer, most co-operative in realising the dangers of ill-equipped small ships proceeding to sea. They have exercised considerable influence against - such proposed journeys,’’ Mr Fox said. “Great risk has been entailed lin sending out Air Force air-

craft in many of these searches, which on a great number of occasions have been conducted under adverse weather conditions. “Launch owners and fishermen have also contributed to such searches and. in many cases, at risk to themselves and theii craft.

“The cost to the public is great but, above all wc must consider the loss of life that has occurred, and the dangers incurred by the searchers.”

Mr Fox said he proposed that early discussions be held between officers of the Marine Department and yachting authorities in New Zealand, to formulate a safety policy.

“I would like to express my appreciation for the assistance given by Mr T. McKnight, of the Royal Akarana Yacht Club, to the Marine Superintendent. Auckland, at a recent inquiry concerning the Te Rapunga,” he said. “At the same time I join in their anxiety with the relatives of the crew of the ketch Starlite, which has been missing from Napier for 28 days. The Air Sea Rescue Organisation is making every endeavour to (locate this vessel.”