Vincent P Martin (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Higgins for being vigilant on these matters. Part 3 of the Bill seeks to change the definition of foreshore. That has raised concerns, including among the wind energy developers. It is also likely to be of concern to any marine survey providers or to those who carry out wildlife surveys or geological surveys or even wildlife photography. Is the Minister of State in a position to clarify this point, either today or as the Bill makes its journey through the legislative Stages? Is the Minister of State in a position to allay the concerns and to clarify if a foreshore site investigations licence will be required to carry out non-invasive surveys which effect neither the seabed nor marine habitats?

The concern we have with this is the length of time it is taking to process these licences. Prior to 2019, it is understood that it was taking 13 to 18 months. Post 2019, the time has now gone up to 20 months. It is not appropriate to have a situation where it can take just less than two years for an exploratory site investigation to take place or a simple wildlife survey. It will be simple in one sense but will require high levels of skills in another sense. Overall, in substance, it is not an insurmountable survey to do. I know it has its complexities, but it is a straightforward issue.

The implications go beyond wind energy generation. They touch on ecology and on marine biology. I am hoping the Minister of State can give us assurances that such surveys will not be impeded.