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

I support the amendment. Having a definition of "community garden" in legislation is important. It will be helpful if that is done. Earlier today and yesterday, when dealing with the planning process and the national planning framework, we had a good discussion on the importance of well-being and health. Among their numerous benefits, community gardens contribute to well-being and human health. They are also very important in community building, cohesion and integration. I have come across cases where they have been very successful in bringing together newer residents with longer term residents in an area. They are very positive in bringing cohesiveness, integration, friendships and community building. They also play a very important role in derelict and underutilised spaces. Significantly, they have brought life into open spaces. The activity in community gardens have had a positive impact in some open spaces where people might not have felt safe. I strongly support the amendment. I commend the Deputies on bringing it forward.