Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies. I note their argument and that they have a genuine reason for proposing the amendment. On the other hand, I also believe we need to afford the council reasonable time to allow it to have a deep engagement with all of the sectors for what is a vital piece of work on behalf of the State. As I have already outlined, 18 months is a maximum period. There is adequate flexibility within the legislation to allow the council carry out the work within its scope in an efficient and effective time period. I am fully confident that the council will carry out its work in a very effective way and I believe we should give it that vote of confidence.

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