Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

I thank Senator Glynn for his very gracious actions. I welcome the Minister and, as I must leave, will summarise my remarks. We welcome the Bill which is a fair attempt at improving the existing legislation. We acknowledge that it seeks to clean up the mess left behind by successive Governments.

I strongly welcome the incorporation of provisions dealing with greenhouse gases. The climate change debate, incorporating as it does the complexities surrounding the reduction of emissions and a move towards sustainable living, can seem very far removed from the experience in towns and villages across Ireland but it is at this level that real changes must be made. I have no difficulty in supporting provisions that will incorporate the promotion of sustainable and environmentally progressive practices into development plans.

Section 31 deals with the taking in charge process and it is good to see it included. I am glad to see an attempt being made to deal with the issue of multi-unit developments, an issue about which I have been speaking for some time in the House. We are glad to see action being taken on that issue. Residents in estates across the country will welcome the introduction of this legislation.

I reserve the right to table amendments at a later stage but in broad terms, we welcome the legislation and look forward to Committee Stage. I again thank Senator Glynn for allowing me to speak before him.