Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is my understanding that there is no recourse. The board will go on to make its decision after the 16-week period, as outlined in this section, but there is a consequence in terms of the fine.

The Bill also provides for a public consultation period if justified that will push the decision well past the 16-week period. In the normal course of events, considering these applications, I am very confident that the board will have the resources to make a decision and will do so within the 16-week period. It is important that there is some public consequence to the board not making a decision. We have given a commitment to respond to an emergency situation and that is what we are doing with this legislation.

The Senator is right that board members will not pay the money. The money will be funded through my Department but the board will not want to see a fine paid. It is important to have an incentive and I am confident that the board will meet the target. The provision gives us a lot more credibility if there is a consequence. I take the point made by the Senator. The provision gives a bit of teeth to the requirement to make a decision within the timeframe outlined.