Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. These are entirely sensible amendments to the exemptions and they support that funding of €17 million that was announced through Bord Fáilte for outdoor dining equipment and the announcement yesterday of a further €15 million to enhance those public, outdoor and open spaces for local authorities. This goes hand in hand with those measures and it is entirely sensible.

I have one comment on the requirement now that one does not need to apply for planning permission for awnings and other structures as long as they are associated with a licensing application; I ask that care and consideration for protected structures is included in this also.

Do members wish to contribute on this? I call Senator Seery Kearney to speak and then Deputy Ó Broin.