Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

That is an area that has become increasingly important also. I would like to understand exactly how we can ensure we are not damaging an industry of extreme importance along the west coast. I refer to sustainable practices in terms of food and the health benefits of seaweed. This is a huge area of concern. I am not confident and do not see how we can meaningfully regulate and be sure of regulation and meaningful accountability when we simply have a right to swoop in and move back, potentially to ports in the United Kingdom, for example, that will potentially be outside our jurisdiction and without even the protections, such as may exist, related to a common EU exchange. It seems that we are giving a hostage to fortune.

I refer to moving something from a context of an arrangement into a legally set piece of legislation. This is quite a significant step up. We are losing our discretion and flexibility. We are making ourselves vulnerable to potential lawsuits from multinational corporations that may happen to register themselves at a point of convenience. Unfortunately, both Ireland and the United Kingdom have had experiences in the past with the brass plate company, the registered corporation and the multinational company. It is very legitimate and reasonable to ask whether we are laying ourselves open in a new way to potential lawsuits from companies if we try to regulate in the future and impose limits.

I share the concerns expressed here. It is very reasonable to postpone, at least until after Easter, thus giving the Minister an opportunity to speak to others on this. It would give us a chance in this House to debate these very important issues as part of our wider discussion on Brexit. There needs to be much more clear guidance and consultation not only on how the law would be applied to the letter and on regulation but also on the practice and what will and will not be viable. A risk analysis is needed. I urge the Minister, at a minimum, to take the time to engage in consultation and engage in the risk analysis.