Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Now we see the reason for my frustration that there is not a Minister or Minister from State from the relevant Department here to respond. The points I raised have not been addressed, which is not the fault of the Minister of State, Deputy O'Brien.

A further point that needs to be addressed along with the staffing issue is the significant hurdle that presents in the form of the environmental regulations, which are a kind of black box that complicates project implementation. Currently, pending judicial interpretations, our understanding and application of EU and national environmental laws are mired in uncertainty. This lack of clarity is not only inadequate, it also deters environmental consultants from engaging with the complex assessments required for projects like those at Lough Funshinagh and the Shannon Callows. The ambiguity surrounding these environmental laws hampers our ability to move forward.

We urgently need definitive interpretations of these complex regulations. Therefore, I am urging the Government to instruct the Law Reform Commission to conduct a thorough review of all environmental legislation applicable in Ireland. The aim should be to revise and clarify these laws, eliminating any ambiguities. Across organisations like the EPA, the Heritage Council, local authorities and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, we need to know what is and is not acceptable. Such a reform would not only streamline the environmental aspects of project design but would also safeguard our communities and natural landscapes. It would facilitate the swift advancement of crucial projects, particularly those aimed at protecting homes in areas like south Roscommon that are currently at risk of being washed away. This clarity in environmental legislation is imperative for efficient, effective and timely project implementation, thereby ensuring both environmental integrity and the safety of our communities.

I ask the Minister of State to do one thing for me. Will he convey what I have said on the record this evening to the relevant Minister of State and ask that I be given a substantive response on these specific issues?

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