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

I reassure the Senator that he is correct. We cannot have one project that will deliver an environmental benefit but could potentially be injurious to another environmental objective, namely, our habitats. It is critical that a rigorous process is in place to support projects as they move forward. They must go through rigorous screening, environmental impact assessment and appropriate assessment before their applications are determined by An Bord Pleanála. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the NPWS also have a statutory role to play in that regard. The resources are available. The Government is ensuring we have adequate resources to support these planning applications. It is a worthwhile project but it is vital that we protect this important habitat.