Vol. 566 No. 1
376 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the persons who typically own reclaimed land that has been newly created by using landfill and other methods from the sea; the role his Department plays in determining such ownership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11709/03]
The foreshore is defined by the Foreshore Acts 1933 to 1998 as the area lying below the high water mark of ordinary or medium tides. Ownership of this area vests in the State, unless another person can prove title to a specific part of it. Occupation of the foreshore for the purposes of carrying out development, including reclamation, may take place only in accordance with the terms of a lease or licence granted under the Foreshore Acts. Ownership of an area of foreshore in respect of which a lease or licence is granted remains with the State. The determination of any dispute that may arise concerning the ownership of foreshore is a matter for the courts.
