Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)

Sinn Féin supports the general thrust of the comments made by the previous speakers. I seek clarification on the statement made. I had envisaged there might be a Government amendment to this provision because the Minister made a statement last week when questioned about SACs, NHAs and SPAs. Members made the point that considerable worry had been expressed regarding houses that had been built in areas subsequently designated as SACs, NHAs or SPAs. The concern was that householders would be in trouble were they then obliged to upgrade their septic tanks. A commitment was made by the Minister last week and it certainly does not sit well with section 70C(1)(b)(iii). Therefore, Sinn Féin supports the amendment in that regard.

Sinn Féin also supports the amendment to section 70C(1)(b) to the effect that a practical effort be made in order that it would not "constitute ... a risk to human health or the environment". One point Sinn Féin has been trying to push throughout the debate on the Bill is that, to an extent, it is draconian. It is highly proscriptive in respect of the obligations on citizens, but it provides the Minister with great breadth regarding the regulations he or she might introduce in the future. This provision is another instance of this with which Sinn Féin cannot agree.