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

Deputy Duffy's amendment No. 149 certainly is a good amendment as well. The addition of the two words "and restoration" in our amendment No. 150 is highly significant. Yes, conservation is important but it is of critical importance as well that we restore what we have lost. Including those two words would significantly strengthen the section. In general and not just in this Bill, our thinking around biodiversity, habitats and everything we are doing around planning is not just about conserving things; it is also about doing restoration where we can. That is very important.

The reference in amendment No. 154 to the "promotion of sustainable development consistent with a focus on improving human health and well-being" is a very important way for impacts to be measured, as the amendment sets out, but also for plans to be framed. Aligning sustainable development with its impact on human health and well-being is very important. In my role as a public representative, I am very conscious that in different parts of my constituency, some people have better access than others to spaces and amenities that are good for well-being. These issues have impacts on people's health and well-being. A consideration of that should be absolutely central to everything we do. Good planning is about ensuring there is consideration in how things are planned and designed of the need for sustainable development and the impact on people's health and well-being. That is absolutely critical. Open spaces, amenities, planting landscapes and biodiversity in local neighbourhoods all have an impact and are very important.