John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

I wish to respond to Deputy Tuffy. I would like to hear from councillors because given that it is a reserved function I was trying to recall from my time as a councillor how many times such a tree preservation order came before the council. I could not recall a single instance.

Many Members have served as councillors and they would agree with me on that issue. Therefore, we must hear from councillors on the effectiveness of the existing guidelines and whether they are being used. If Members feel the guidelines are not working effectively, I will keep them under review. I do not have any immediate plans in this regard but if I am shown how to improve the guidelines, I will consider the matter.

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