New Marine Accident Investigation Unit Established to Strengthen Ireland's Maritime Safety

Ireland's maritime safety framework has been bolstered with the establishment of a new dedicated investigation body, the Marine Accident Investigation Unit (MAIU), which became operational on 1 January 2026.

The MAIU, based within the Department of Transport, replaces the Marine Casualty Investigation Board (MCIB) and will take over all ongoing investigations. The unit is led by Chief Investigator David O'Driscoll and marks a significant shift from the previous part-time panel of investigators to a full-time, permanent team.

The unit will investigate accidents involving vessels in Irish waters and Irish-flagged vessels anywhere in the world. This approach mirrors existing practice in aviation and railway accident investigations in the State.

Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien said:

"The establishment of the MAIU marks a significant step forward in strengthening Ireland's maritime safety framework. This dedicated unit will ensure that marine accident investigations continue to be carried out to the highest standards to help prevent similar accidents occurring in future."

Minister of State Seán Canney, with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, added:

"The enactment of the legislation that allowed for the establishment of the MAIU is a commitment in the Programme for Government, and shows our focus on enhancing Ireland's maritime safety regime, particularly in marine accident investigation."

The MAIU was established under the Merchant Shipping (Investigation of Marine Accidents) Act 2025, which also dissolves the MCIB and repeals the previous 2000 Act governing marine casualty investigations.

Marine accidents should be reported to the MAIU by email at info@maiu.gov.ie or by telephone on +353 1 6768139. Further information is available at www.maiu.gov.ie.