I move amendment No. 39:
In page 33, subsection (1)(b), line 10, to delete "25 years" and substitute "50 years".
I agree with the aims and objectives of this Bill but I put down this amendment because I fear we are putting regulations in place that may interfere with the right of a citizen to buy and sell property, which is a basic right under the Constitution. I have already expressed this concern in connection with section 42. I also fear that the 25 year rule would interfere with the right of families to move their own household items in and out of the State. It is an unrealistic length of time as it is too short. I acknowledge we live in an age of obsolescence and that today 25 years is a long time in terms of the value of objects; nonetheless, I recommend 50 years. I seek to bring Irish law on these matters into line with European law. The 50 year rule applies to matters of this nature in other member states.