Vol. 434 No. 4
132 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for the Marine the steps, if any, he proposes to take to ban or restrict motor vehicles from sand dunes and beaches, other than those used for legitimate purposes such as those for launching sea craft or the collection of seaweed in view of the damage done to the environment, leading to coastal erosion in many areas.
Responsibility for protecting beaches and sand dunes is primarily a matter for the local authorities. However, the Minister for the Marine may, under the Foreshores Acts, 1933 and 1992, serve a prohibitory notice or make a prohibitory order prohibiting removal or disturbance of beach material from the foreshore or the seashore whenever he is of the opinion that such removal or disturbance should be restricted or controlled or has affected or is likely to affect prejudicially any flora, fauna, amenities, or public rights. These powers have been used in the past to assist local authorities in their efforts to protect specific sections of seashore and I will remain responsive to all requests for such assistance. No case requiring the use of powers to abate or prevent this type of disturbance has come to my notice since the passing of the Foreshore (Amendment) Act in July 1992.
