Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Amendment No. 38 seeks to delete "colocation" from section 22 in relation to proposed maritime usages within a DMAP. The inclusion of both "colocation" and "coexistence" here is designed to reflect the intended versatile nature of DMAPs. I am sure the Senator can appreciate that. The proposed amendment would unduly limit the scope and potential of DMAPs.

Flexibility is required in this regard. Once again, I remind Members that what we are doing here is creating a framework within which plans can be made. It is important we do not use primary legislation as a development control tool. I note to colleagues that this is a new system that is revolutionary in its approach. We want to enable competent authorities to create plans that are all encompassing. We would negate that paradigm by building in inflexibilities such as those suggested in this amendment.

This section was amended on Committee Stage in the Dáil to provide for colocation and coexistence. As such, I am opposing this amendment.