Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I understand the term referred to by Deputy Higgins is a parliamentary drafting term. As far as I can see he is referring to page 9 of the Bill, which refers to "foreshore which for the time being belongs to the State, including foreshore so belonging whether by virtue of Article 10.2 of the Constitution or otherwise." It must be pointed out that as a general principle, foreshore licences are extended for a period of 35 years. There have been some for 99 years but they are the exception rather than the rule. There may well be elements of foreshore which are currently assigned by foreshore licences to individuals, bodies or companies; I understand the wording to which the Deputy refers is the drafting device for referring to the remainder.

See this speech in context