Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

It would be inaccurate to describe the situation as wrangling between the parties of Government. A December 2007 European Court of Justice judgment on Natura sites impacts very negatively on the situation we are trying to address. I welcome the level of co-operation that has been possible between this Department and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, which has enabled us to present a lengthy document to the European Commission to advance all these matters.

The initial response from the Environment Directorate General to our meeting of 13 May was positive, subject to clarification of a number points, and we are confident in our ability to deliver. I concur with Deputy Creed in regard to job creation potential and want to ensure that is realised at the earliest opportunity.

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