Caít Keane (Fine Gael)

As Fine Gael spokesperson on the environment, I would like to mention an important document, Ireland's Environment: An Assessment 2012, which was published by the Environmental Protection Agency and launched yesterday by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Phil Hogan. It is a most comprehensive evidence-based assessment of the state of our environment. I ask the Leader to arrange a discussion on this document which is published only once every four years. We should be informed by its assessment and recommendations in every decision we make as legislators. As well as the environment, our economic growth depends on it. Ireland is known for its good environment and, thankfully, the report states our environment is generally in good condition. However, it highlights some formidable tasks ahead of us of which we should all be aware. As legislators, we must make critical decisions on behalf of our constituents on our environment and we want to make sure it is in good condition when we pass it on to the next generation. Because Ireland is uniquely noted for its green and clean image, our economic growth also depends on it. Senator Denis O'Donovan mentioned An Taisce, but that body should be dealt with in a separate debate. I understand from where the Senator is coming; An Taisce does a good job, but there are issues in certain areas that need to be debated. However, that should be the subject of a separate debate; it should not be lost in the debate on the EPA report or vice versa. Even though one could say they are interlinked, they are separate subjects. I ask the Leader to hold that important debate.