Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will reply to the Deputies in reverse order.

In answer to Deputy Stanley, the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government and the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment are trying to streamline the application process, as recommended in the national peatlands strategy. That would make it somewhat easier to apply. Obviously, it is quite cumbersome to be obliged to apply for planning permission for leave for substituted consent. As the Deputy recognised, it is a matter for An Bord Pleanála. Several jobs will be created in the midlands. There will be vacancies for machine operators, engineers, hydrologists, ecologists, environmental scientists, site supervisors, community liaison personnel and staff to evaluate amenity development potential. There will be a significant amount of work available there.

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