Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State and her officials must be cognisant that people are making proposals in the area of hydro-technology. However, the convoluted nature of the planning process makes it difficult for proposers as they have to provide a large amount of information. Moreover, once they obtain planning permission, they must seek grid connectivity from the ESB which may not match up. As a result, they may have to engage in the planning process again as changes they have made may be considered to be material in nature. The planning process must show some flexibility towards hydroelectric schemes. In the case of the Glasha hydroelectric scheme in County Waterford, no objections have been lodged and fisheries bodies and others have all expressed support. However, the proposers must engage again with the planning process because the system is so rigid. I am bringing to the Minister of State's attention the fact that people are developing new technologies that would help us reach the renewable targets Ireland must achieve by 2020. We must think outside the box by revising the planning regulations and laws to try to assist such individuals, where possible. Environmental impact assessments have been done and objections have not been lodged. The system is rigid and outdated.