Kevin Humphreys (Labour) | Oireachtas source

We have nearly 25 years of history in respect of this matter. Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Labour Party have been in government during that time and all three parties made progress in protecting the environment. The unintended consequences of this amendment - I believe they are unintended - will be enormously harmful. It is not that there are hundreds and thousands of farmers lined up and ready to drive a coach and four through the legislation. The vast majority of farmers are responsible. However, the legislation is in place to regulate those who do not care about the environment and will not protect our heritage and hedgerows. The amendment will allow a gap to open up. I, therefdore, ask the Minister to reconsider and redraft it.

It has become clear over the course of the debate that the Bill is with the wrong Minister. It is not about heritage. We have spent more time discussing road safety and agricultural matters. Some 80% of tourists to Ireland talk about our green economy, the beautiful countryside, hedges and hedgerows. I ask the Minister to withdraw and reconsider the amendment. It is disingenuous to propose an amendment at this stage that could have such severe consequences for our natural heritage.