Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thought we were going to take all the subheads together. Forgive me. I have two questions and one general comment, which relates to the expenditure. The key test with regard to expenditure is that we achieve particular outcomes. Our concern, particularly with regard to meeting our climate targets, is that if we are spending money to facilitate renewable energy, we can meet those targets. One of our frustrations relates to how long the decision-making process takes. Built into this expenditure, how are we improving outcomes to ensure we are able to reach the targets?

I will also ask my other two questions, if I may, and leave it at that. Local authorities are primarily responsible at the moment, under climate resilience, for coastal protection and looking after our beaches. On specific resources for coastal protection, under climate resilience, and for beach renewal, the Minister might be able to answer.

Under the circular economy legislation, the Minister will be aware that local authorities with necessary safeguards in place can use CCTV and other technologies to detect illegal dumping and track down illegal dumpers. However, an issue has been raised about the level of resources allocated. The Minister might indicate where, within the Estimates, sums to support local authorities to address the issue of illegal dumping are provided.