Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

The Minister should examine the administration of the environmental fund that is drawn up for communities from landfills. People who are in the immediate proximity to landfill sites should get some funding. One may not be able to give money to the residents, but those closest to such sites are suffering. It is difficult to identify a project for them but perhaps there could be a mechanism whereby a grant could be given to them for environmental works in the vicinity of their residences. For example, they may need to install windows, hedging or fencing because they suffer more than the community at large. Some communities have benefited greatly from the environmental fund but those in the immediate vicinity of downside projects and upon whom they have greatest impact may not be included. I would appreciate it if the Minister could examine that matter. Perhaps I should not be giving him too many ideas at this late stage but I am sure he will use them in a responsible manner.

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