Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I just cannot accept the analysis that claims that people's rights on environmental decision-making under the Aarhus Convention are constrained to areas where the State would like to use those rights. It is very clear that environmental decision-making, not just planning, comes under Aarhus. It does not just kick in at a certain point. Things that affect the environment, and maritime areas are part of our shared environment and of the ecosystems we are part of, are very much of relevance and importance. In that context, again, to treat maritime areas and oceans as property in respect of maritime area consents misses a very important point. I will press the amendment.