Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

The Bill does not exclude expert advice. It provides that the board may seek the views of any person or party it feels may have information relevant to the determination of an application. That would include health experts if, in the opinion of the board, that would be appropriate. The Bill also provides for the making of regulations to prescribe bodies for the purpose of consultation on an application. The normal practice was to make reference to the health boards and the specific reference, following the enactment of the legislation, will be to their successor. Health boards have been prescribed authorities "where it appears that the development might have a significant effect on public health". Making regulations would be more appropriate to avail of the necessary health expertise and reference would be made to the HSE.

As the Senator said, health issues are important but they are only one aspect of planning.