Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

From the very extensive environmental impact analyses that are required to be submitted and which reach many thousands of pages of detailed analysis, my understanding is that they are taken into account. Given the legacy left behind in regard to agriculture, the expertise was never there to deal with the detail of environmental impact analysis in different parts of the country. I have had contact from communities about this.

I share everyone's view that consultation and information are necessary. Had we had those in respect of other major applications throughout the country, things might have been much smoother. These proposals are not yet a reality and I cannot say whether they will become a reality in the context of their applications. There is a process which is independent and robust and which takes account of all these aspects. It is a matter for the promoters and local authorities involved to have extensive consultation with communities, which I support, in order that they are fully informed as to what is involved.

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