Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees
Thursday, 13 May 2021
Public Accounts Committee
2019 Financial Statements of An Bord Pleanála
9:30 am
Mr. Dave Walsh:
The Deputy is right. In parallel with any new marine approval functions, a marine spatial plan is being designed to designate particular areas. That is something I know the Department and the Government are working on. Even having clarity on the types of habitats and areas in the marine context would certainly help general understanding of the issues. As I indicated previously, these will have very detailed environmental, Natura-based explanations. It is a job for the board, as with any major application, to engage and consult effectively and to have material available. The earlier we can consult and have engagement, not only with the applicants but with the key stakeholders, whether that is the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Marine Institute or the general public, the better the understanding when it comes to determining and assessing the various elements.
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