Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank both Senators for their observations. The Department’s position on the registration threshold is the same as that proposed for the licensing threshold. The suggested amendment would remove the reference to the power of the Minister to reduce the threshold by ministerial order under section 16. This reduces the State’s ability to ensure ongoing protection of the environment and to ensure water bodies meet their environmental objectives.

The same powers exist for the EPA to advise the Minister on the registration threshold as for the licensing threshold. The Minister will have the power to reduce the registration threshold if necessary to provide for additional protection to our surface and ground waters.