Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Amendment No. 170 seeks to expand this provision by requiring the Government to respond to such observations, as well as having regard to them.

The purpose of public participation is to gather and collate their views as they relate to the particular draft framework that is being consulted on. It is not unusual for a range of views, which may be contradictory, to be expressed on any particular objective or range of objectives of the draft under consideration. Such views must be considered in a balanced and integrated fashion to best inform the final wording of a particular objective and the document as a whole.

A report is prepared on the collated views, as they effect either the overall drafting of the framework or more likely particular elements of the document. This allows for an integrated and balanced consideration as to what changes, if any, are proposed or warranted. I consider that the provision to "have regard" to these views is appropriate in the context that participation with the public is to improve the overall quality of the document.

All submissions are considered but it is not the intention to individually engage on the merits of individual submissions. Instead the value of public participation is to collate a range of views as they effect a particular section or objective or indeed the document as a whole and to allow the Government to reflect on any changes that may be required. This not only takes account of the range of views but changes are made in the light of Government policy and legal obligations. In view of this I cannot accept the amendment.

With respect to the format of public consultation, I consider that the Bill as drafted is appropriate and sets out in balanced fashion the format for consultation. Regard is always had to submissions received as part of any consultation process.

The intent of what the Deputy is putting forward is worthy. The practical import would be difficult. It is a consultation process. Obviously, there will be a large number of a submissions, which will be carefully considered. They go through various forums and are public documents. We regard that what is being required in respect of the practical application and looking at it all in balanced way is reasonable.