Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

To be clear, there is no confusion here. Much work has gone on. The Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, met Conradh na Gaeilge recently, which is central to this. I have met Gaeltacht communities across the country. In response to that, to underwrite, secure and ensure consistent and sustainable planning in our Gaeltacht areas, these guidelines are specific to Gaeltacht areas. They will be issued under section 28. We have to comply with environmental requirements and assessments, strategic environmental assessments and appropriate assessments. That takes time. We have significant requirements relating to presenting documents for public consultation and ensuring that those environmental assessments have been carried out, because if they are not, there will be a significant risk of challenges in the future. Early next year, we will issue these guidelines, as well as the rural planning guidelines, which I think will provide a strong, sustainable statement to ensure that our Gaeltacht areas flourish and are supported, and that rural planning is done on a consistent and sustainable basis, which is critical.

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