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Labor Ignores Boating Industry On Blanket Lifejacket Laws

The Bracks Government’s new lifejacket regulations have been developed without proper consideration and consultation with the boating industry, adding to Victoria’s reputation as the "nanny state."

By Philip Davis - 2nd December 2005 - Back to News

The Bracks Government’s new lifejacket regulations have been developed without proper consideration and consultation with the boating industry, adding to Victoria’s reputation as the "nanny state."

Shadow Minister for Country Victoria Philip Davis said the Marine (Personal Flotation Devices and other safety equipment) Regulations 2005 were only announced yesterday, but serious concerns have already been identified by the boating industry.

The Minister for Transport Peter Batchelor claims in his media release that the regulations were implemented following "an extensive consultation and review process by Marine Safety Victoria, including the release of a discussion paper and regulatory impact statement, both for public comment." (Peter Batchelor, Media Release 29.11.05)

However, peak boating organisations, including the Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIA) and VRFish claim the Bracks Government ignored their submissions to the regulatory impact statement. In fact, they were not even invited to the launch of the new regulations.

"The Bracks Government completely ignored the concerns of BIA and VRFish on these regulations," Mr Davis said.

"These organisations have grave concerns about the Bracks Government allowing the use of lifejackets which meet European standards but are not suitable in Australia.

"They believe these regulations are confusing and more should be done to educate boaters about weather conditions and when it is safe to go out on the water."

The BIA claims the Bracks Government is "trying to regulate against stupidity instead of addressing the real problems." VRFish Chief Executive David Kramer said the Bracks Government ignored his 70 page submission which included a case where a Coroner criticised the New South Wales Government for applying a blanket approach to the use of lifejackets.

Mr Davis said boat safety and reducing the number of drownings is at the forefront of all concerned, but this drastic approach by Labor is wrapping Victorians in yet another layer of red tape. There is also the considerable cost involved in forcing all boat users to wear lifejackets.

He said the previous regulations required lifejackets to be available to all boat passengers for emergency use. But these new regulations will force boat users to purchase new jackets that are more comfortable to wear as they will have to be worn all day long, rather than the old ‘pillow’ variety, which are uncomfortable to wear for sustained periods.

The new style jackets cost anywhere between $150 and $500. With every passenger onboard required to wear a jacket it will be a substantial and unnecessary cost to recreational boat users. Some will simply find it too expensive.

"It beggars belief that the Bracks Government could ignore the concerns of VRFish and BIA on this important issue, as they are the principal organisations representing recreational boat users" Mr Davis said.

"These regulations are complicated and unworkable. They will ultimately result in boaters flouting the law."

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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