Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

If amendment No. 11 is passed, Dáil Éireann will, of course, have the right to amend it, as is normal.

Turning to section 18A(3), the terms of reference for an NHA review are included in the subsection and they must all be taken into account. It is clear regarding areas that will cease to be designated, having regard to environmental criteria, restoration potential, etc., that all of it is being replaced by amendment No. 11. The addition of the words "recreational and sporting needs (including greenways)" comes from the concerns expressed in the debate about projects that we all support such as walkways, greenways, etc. They encompass sentiments expressed in earlier debates and add to what we are trying to do. It is not about wholesale dedesignation; rather it is acknowledged that in certain cases such as projects for the good of the community there may be a need to dedesignate small amounts of land. We want to ensure clarity in that regard. We could discuss several projects that might be delayed because of things like this. Either way, a strategic environmental impact assessment and public consultation will be required. As that aspect is covered, the Senator need not be concerned about the addition of the words "recreational and sporting needs" to the amendment.