Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Amendment No. 115 relates to the consultation on special protection and seeks to insert the wording "and by the public". In section 22, no role is assigned to the public. My amendment would ensure that the public can have their say and can express a view. I do not know why the Bill would allow for representations in writing only from the owner. Why would the public not be allowed to have a say? Why would someone with expertise, for example, who is a member of the public, not be able to comment? It is important in implementing the rights outlined in Article 9(3) of the Aarhus Convention. I look forward to what the Minister of State has to say about it.