Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 30:

In page 14, line 24, to delete “Agency” and substitute “Minister”

This amendment seeks to assign responsibility for the circular economy programme to the Minister as opposed to the EPA. Amendment No. 31 does the same thing in a long-winded sort of way. This is an issue that came up during the pre-legislative scrutiny stage. Indeed, it may have been one of the recommendations, if I recall correctly. We feel it is appropriate, while understanding the responsibilities and competencies of the agency, that the Minister is defined in legislation and is ultimately accountable.