The new wording removes reference to "seaweed" from the Foreshore Act definition as it is already provided for in Schedule 7 and there was a potential conflict or double licensing requirement arising. This amendment and amendment No. 282 are simple clarifications of existing categories of maritime usages.

Amendment No. 284 is required to create a new licensable activity category that addresses Ireland's international obligations in respect of certain cables. It inserts a new paragraph into Schedule 7 and makes it a licensable activity to lay or install telecommunications cables or ducting by or between coastal states where such cables or ducting pass through the exclusive economic zone or the continental shelf but do not land in the State. Such cables and ducting will have already been screened or assessed for environmental impacts in the current country of origin. Where this has occurred, there will be further secondary legislation providing for the appropriate exemptions from the requirement to obtain a licence in those specific circumstances. Where this has not occurred, no exemption will be available. These exemptions will only be applicable where specific notification procedures have taken place. My officials will be working with the relevant Department and the Office of the Attorney General to formulate suitable wording to accommodate same in regulations. This is a technical provision that arises from existing international agreements and is necessary to ensure compliance with same, as advised by the Office of the Attorney General. As this is explicit advice from the Office of the Attorney General, I must encourage Deputies to support the amendment.