Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand that there is already in existence some crisis management protocol for State agencies. I am seeking an extension of that to citizens following flooding or extreme weather events. As I understand, the IFA is also working on this matter. Perhaps the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government and the Department of Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht could work with sectoral interests like the IFA and others on putting in place a protocol that works and will have the support of citizens. The business community has in place business continuity crisis management plans. The definition of crisis management is common sense applied in a structured manner. That is what we need in regard to the application of EU directives. When directives impact negatively on people's livelihoods, homes and families and thus the wider community it turns people against them. The message I would like the Minister to bring to Europe is that we need practical directives to allow us manage crises effectively. Otherwise, we will manage them in a manner which protects our ecosystems and biodiversity.