Explanatory note

This Order reconstitutes the Dart Harbour and Navigation Authority as from 1st November 2002 or on the date on which this Order comes into force whichever is the later. It provides for the Authority to consist of a body of not less than eight and not more than eleven members with experience in relevant matters. Not less than seven and not more than nine members will be appointed by the Authority. The Chief Executive and, if a different person from the Chief Executive, the Harbour Master, will also hold office as a member of the Authority. Under the terms of the Order the appointed members will retire in rotation. The Order provides that those members may co-opt not more than two persons to serve as additional members for such period not exceeding twelve months as the co-opting members may specify. The Authority will consult any advisory body accredited by them as representing interests concerning the harbour and complying with standards of openness and accountability to be prescribed to the Authority.

The Order also includes other provisions with respect to the Authority’s constitution including provisions for the protection of members from personal liability in the discharge of their functions. The Order increases the Authority’s borrowing powers, amends existing statutory requirements as to the Authority’s accounts and repeals certain statutory provisions.