Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance) | Oireachtas source

This matter does not involve people, in a rather whimsical manner, seeking surveys. What we are seeking is that people should be allowed to petition for such surveys if they have concerns. Ultimately, the decision on whether a survey would be carried out would lie with the Minister. There should a procedure whereby people with concerns would have the opportunity to indicate that they want action to be taken. The details of what would be involved in the context of the criteria relating to petitions, etc., could be discussed but provision should be made to allow people to seek surveys. There are many individuals who have concerns about the environment in general and, in the context of this matter, adverse impacts on ancient woodlands and problems relating to biodiversity. These people should have an avenue whereby they could petition the Minister to have surveys carried out in circumstances where they raise legitimate concerns. I am of the view that the amendment is very reasonable.