Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I note that there are jurisdictional rights of the State in terms of the exclusive economic zone. Some provisions of this Bill go somewhat wider than that but I am happy to engage with the Minister of State on this matter.

Section 14(b)(iii) provides for "the protection and preservation of the marine environment" but restoration is not named and that is why I seek an interpretative statement or an indication that we expect, in these regulations that have been laid before us, a clarity that restoration is envisaged to be either part of the interpretation of conservation or management at this point, or for it to be made clear that this is incorporated within "the protection and preservation" provided under section 14. Again, it is just that word again. Unfortunately, some of these laws were drafted at a point when a lot of damage had not yet been done, whereas we are now playing catch-up in some situations with the marine environment, rather than protection.

I understand that the Minister of State has indicated that he believes these areas are sufficient to cover restoration. Perhaps he could indicate that this is the interpretation.