Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Article 8 of the Aarhus Convention on consultation on legislation goes way beyond land use regulations where a strategic environmental assessment is required. The Minister might address that point in the context of what he said.

On amendment No. 47 and the use of the word "expedient", will the Minister elaborate on why he feels that "necessary" is insufficient there? He is saying the use of the word "expedient" is standard in legislation. Does the dictionary definition of "expedient" apply here in the legislation? A dictionary definition of "expedient" is an action that is convenient and practical although possibly improper or immoral. Does this definition apply to the use of the word "expedient" here? If it does not apply, then on what basis do the dictionary definitions not apply to the use of the language here?

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