Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

No, it was not. Having read the relevant part of the Bill, the Deputy has highlighted an important issue. He felt strongly enough to abstain from the vote on the original Bill last Christmas. Perhaps the Minister of State will recall the Deputy's wise decision to abstain. He should not try to brush the matter to one side with a wave of his hand. He is not Mr. Hogan.

This is a timely amendment because this issue is causing serious concern. Some level of accountability is required, although I do not see how it will be achieved in the Bill before us, which does not provide for any accountability. The Minister has more work to do on this matter. Those who pay development levies will demand accountability from us and we will not be in a position to provide it. The unfortunate county councillors who are closer to members of the public will be in an even worse position. How will this issue be addressed?

On the section, I have a question on regulations and orders.

I am asking that, at the very least, the Minister of State give a commitment, on behalf of the Minister, that all regulations will be brought before the Joint Committee on the Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht. That is the very least he can do because regulations introduced by a Minister can have major consequences. We have seen legislation introduced through regulations and regulations have been used to supplant legislation. The Minister will have significant powers and we will have no opportunity to scrutinise or to have an input into that process.

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