Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The amendments provided for in the Bill are intended to amend the Foreshore Act 1933 in order to ensure that there is no doubt over the definition of foreshore and the Act can operate as it always has. This includes requiring a foreshore licence for the lawful undertaking of geophysical and geotechnical surveying. The existing consent process includes assessments required under the birds and habitats directive, and the environmental impact assessment, EIA, directive, where required. I am confident that the Bill allows the State to regulate the use of the foreshore, including developer activities identified by the Senators in this proposed amendment, meet its obligations with respect to a range of directives for the protection of the maritime area, and provide for a streamlined and transparent consenting process. Therefore, I am not accepting amendments Nos. 54 and 55.