Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

The process of change is under way at present. As is the nature with all such issues, it is necessary to have consultations, otherwise one would be accused of acting in a unilateral manner. When the consultation process is complete, proposals will be put forward in line with the Deputy's request. Following that, it will be necessary to put legislation in place.

When drafting legislation of this nature, we must ensure, in line with the point made by the Deputy, that we do not end up in a situation where rowing boats, jet skis and so on are also caught by the measures. It is a question of keeping a balance.

We expect that all the consultations will be complete and the draft legislation in place by the end of the year. I believe it will meet the Deputy's requirements.

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