Changes to the Crown Lands Act have passed in the House of Assembly.
Decision-makers debated into Wednesday night on a number of significant changes to the act, which were first introduced by government last month.
Among the changes are shortened requirements for establishing squatters’ rights, and streamlined access to Crown Lands through an online applications and payment portal.
Minister responsible Gerry Byrne says that “after five years of inaction, Crown Lands are finally on a better path.”
Minister Gerry Byrne
Meanwhile the PCs are pleased to see an amendment proposed by them accepted in the House of Assembly.
The change will see fees for quitclaims waived.
Opposition critic Pleaman Forsey says making quitclaims free is a “significant win” for residents, noting that “people should not have to pay for land that is already theirs.”
Forsey calls the new Crown Lands legislation a step in the right direction, but believes it could go further.
He says the PCs would extend the timeframe for people to apply for squatters’ rights, and adjust the timeline required to prove continuous occupation or ownership.
