Ivor Callely
Question:105 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the grounds on which he can refuse permission for a foreshore licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12770/01]
Written Answers - Foreshore Licences.
Sections 2 and 3 of the Foreshore Act, 1933, provide that a foreshore lease or licence may be granted by the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he is of the opinion that it is in the public interest to do so. Each application is considered on its merits following public consultation and consultation with relevant experts. Where it is decided to grant a foreshore lease or licence, appropriate conditions are attached. Examples of grounds for refusing to grant a foreshore lease or licence would be to avoid unnecessary occupation of foreshore by a proliferation of individual outfall pipes or moorings where a community-based arrangement would better serve the public interest, or to prevent unacceptable environmental consequences.
Section 10 of that Act as amended provides that the Minister shall not refuse to approve proposals for structures on foreshore which is not State-owned, except where such structures would be, or would cause or be likely to cause directly or indirectly, an obstruction to navigation or to fishing or would have, or be likely to have, adverse effects on the environment.