asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will introduce amending legislation to ensure that wrecks of historic and archaeological value around our coasts are protected from retrieving speculators and ensure retention in the State of the more historic items.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Protection of Valuable Wrecks.
61.
Under existing legislation governing salvage, all wreck salvaged inside the territorial seas must be reported to the local receiver of wreck and must be handed in unless the salvor can prove ownership. Unless ownership is established within a year, wreck becomes State property. I am not aware that the legislation has proved inadequate in this respect but if the Deputy has any information to the contrary I am prepared to have it examined and to look into it.