Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The coastal zone management Bill was designed to establish a new legal framework for the integrated management of the coastal zone and to replace the Foreshore Acts. It is being incorporated into the marine services Bill to put in place a comprehensive and new legislative provision to deal with the seafood sector and the marine coastal zone. I will see if the Minister has a date for the publication of the legislation.

A number of Deputies have been helpful in respect of matters relating to Northern Ireland, either in terms of making visits or talking to people, either here or elsewhere, to elicit their views. It would be good if they could arrange with the small team we have working on Northern Ireland issues to have those views heard or to have what is happening explained. The position between the parties is sensitive at present. I do not mind having debates at any time but we must recognise the positions of the parties at this stage in the negotiations. I would be glad, at any stage, to make available——

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