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

What we are talking about here, namely, conferring or removing special protection, is a significant part of the Bill. Not to have any role for the public is a deeply flawed approach. It is highly objectionable. Good practice would be to have it so the public could write in and their views would be considered by the Minister. I do not think that is onerous. I do not think the Minister is necessarily going to be inundated with submissions on this. Not granting the public the same status as that granted to an owner under section 22(1)(b) is a mistake. It is flawed. I will certainly be pressing the amendment.