Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I wish to respond to Deputy Ó Broin's important points. Regarding the aspirations set out by Deputy Ó Snodaigh in amendment No. 46, Heritage Ireland gives effect to the shared value of our intangible, built, archaeological and cultural heritage. It was a policy document drafted through widespread public engagement and support from across the country. It gives effect to perhaps what Deputy Ó Snodaigh was trying to achieve. We do not see it as needed in the legislation. Heritage Ireland is the overarching document that gives effect to the value of our shared heritage and how we are, collectively, custodians of it.

Deputy Ó Broin made valid points about the joint committee. I mean it - we deeply appreciate that it is an incredibly busy committee and it has given significant time to the heritage part of the portfolio as well, which has not always been the case. It is very much appreciated from our side, be it national parks, national monuments or the other elements of my portfolio. I wish to give assurance around the oversight role of the Heritage Council and the National Museum of Ireland - in terms of this legislation, it is critically important. It is also important that the joint committee has the opportunity to continue, through reports and appearances before the committee, to hold us to account and ensure we are enacting the Bill and ensuring that the Bill is given meaning and effect. I give the Deputy assurance in that regard.