Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senator. The amendments propose a reduction in the thresholds for a number of categories mentioned in the Seventh Schedule, which largely reflect the EIA thresholds. They were, therefore, not selected on a whim. The thresholds were also carefully chosen to reflect what is considered to represent strategic infrastructural development and to ensure the board does not become overwhelmed with cases, which could happen if the thresholds were set too low. It is important that the new system should bed down with an appropriate threshold. For example, the Senator's proposed change to the threshold for harbour developments in amendment No. 95 could mean that private marina developers could apply to have their applications fast-tracked. That would not be a good idea. They could not be considered to be of more than local importance. They do not contribute towards the national infrastructure and the Bill only deals with such infrastructure.

It is important to allow a period of implementation for the wide range of categories and associated thresholds in the Seventh Schedule. We can then reflect on that experience and review the thresholds if necessary. However, I am not currently disposed to accepting these amendments as it is important that this review of the strategic planning process be allowed to bed down. In the case of harbours and so on, there could be unforeseen and negative consequences. The thresholds are roughly equivalent to the current EIA thresholds and that is a good cut-off point.