asked the Minister for Transport and Power if in view of the increasing widespread alarm at the manner in which foreigners are purchasing land adiacent to the foreshore and debarring the public from long-enjoyed access to the seashore he will introduce legislation without delay to deal with the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Purchase of Land by Foreigners.
23.
Mr. Ryan
Apart from Press reports I have no recent information or complaints about interference with public access to foreshore. Under the Foreshore Act, 1933, I have certain powers to lease or licence or otherwise regulate the use of State foreshore. I have no powers to regulate access to State or private foreshore over the property of other parties. Legislation on rights of way would be a matter for the Minister for Local Government.
Mr. Ryan
In view of the seriousness of this matter, has the Minister investigated the accuracy of Press reports and if he has found that there is cause for concern would he consider taking powers to prevent the interference which is so clearly taking place with the long-established right of access to the foreshore?
That does not come within the ambit of my Department. Foreshore is the part of the seashore below the line of high water at certain tides. The Minister for Finance owns a great part of the foreshore of this country, which is below water except when the tide——
Mr. Ryan
Is the Minister aware that people do not care which Department owns the foreshore and that they are aware that one Department is passing the buck to another Department? Three Departments claim some kind of interest or lack of interest in it. Would the Government do something about the matter before there is some serious violence?
That is a separate question.
If the Deputy addresses a question to the Minister for Local Government he will find that the matter is being examined.
Mr. Ryan
The last time I did that I was referred to the Minister for Transport and Power.
Another instance of a Minister washing his hands.