Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am concerned by the proposed section 11D(8) because it contains somewhat of an anomaly. We discussed sections 11D(2)(a) and 11D(2)(b). The former provides for a screening to see if an appropriate assessment or strategic environmental assessment is required while the latter sets out that the assessments are to be carried out and published. My concern relates to the language in the proposed section 11D(8). It states, "For the purposes of subsection (2)(b), where necessary, a planning authority shall carry out an appropriate assessment in respect of the extension." The Bill seems to provide only for an appropriate assessment and not for a strategic environmental assessment. A process is provided for whereby one sees whether either of these two things is needed but then there is the other process, in respect of which we had the discussion about "and" or "or". If it is decided that either a strategic environmental assessment or an appropriate assessment is needed, they are to be carried out but, with regard to land use and Part XAB, the provisions allowing for things to actually be done only seem to allow for appropriate assessment. Where are the provisions with regard to the implementation of the other element of section 11D(2)(b), the strategic environmental assessment, should such an assessment be deemed necessary?