Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for today's briefings and those we received last week, which provided really useful background information for those of us who are new to this space. I have two questions and a quick comment.

My first question relates to the terms of enforcement. I welcome the decision by the Government to put together an independent enforcement body which will assume responsibility for marine planning enforcement. I am hoping to get a little more information about how that body will be established, the timelines for putting it together, its terms of reference and its potential make-up, to ensure it is representative of all the stakeholders in that area. I appreciate that the Attorney General is providing legal advice on that but I would welcome the Department's view on how to set this new body up for success because that is imperative.

With regard to the relevant projects which will have to apply separately for MACs and planning permission under the new proposed regime, can the witnesses confirm whether a twin-track approach is involved or whether these applications must be made in a particular sequence? If the latter is the case, is it envisaged that this may slow down the process of getting permission to start construction or installation?

Public consultation and the consideration of environmental impact are paramount. I agree with the points raised by Deputy Ó Broin in that regard.