Michael McNamara (Clare, Labour) | Oireachtas source

As for stating it is the responsibility of one Minister, ultimately it is the responsibility of the State to protect its environment and to encourage forestry. That is, it has the responsibility to do both. As for nitpicking by stating this is the responsibility of one Minister and that is the responsibility of another, I note members are in committee to bring forward legislation that works and not just for today or tomorrow. The legislation members are seeking to repeal here is from 1946. If this Bill is to last for 90 years, will there be a Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine or a Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht?

Ministers change every couple of years, or rather the contours of Departments change.