Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Within this grouping, the Civil Engagement Group tabled a number of amendments to section 32, related to the delivery board, which I would like to address first. Amendments Nos. 20 to 22, inclusive, propose to increase the ex officiomembers of the board to include members of An Taisce, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Irish Wildlife Trust. As I outlined on Committee Stage, the composition of the board as set out in the Bill is designed to align with its intended primary functions, which involve the chair working with key public bodies and supporting implementation of a number of core planning frameworks and strategic plans for the city and county. As chair of the board, the mayor has significant additional powers and is in a unique position to bring added value to Limerick, particularly in the delivery of infrastructure. I recognise the importance of having climate expertise on the board and have brought forward an amendment to that effect. Otherwise, I am satisfied the proposed membership structure of the board is appropriate to achieve its aims and, therefore, I do not propose to accept these amendments. I acknowledge they are well-intentioned but I believe we have catered for that area.

Senators will recall discussion on Committee Stage regarding the delivery board transport subgroup and the importance of ensuring membership included a person with relevant climate expertise. Senator Garvey tabled an amendment to that end and I indicated I would consider the issue in the round and table amendments on Report Stage to fully address the matter. Amendments Nos. 11 and 23 to 25, inclusive, propose changes to section 33 in this regard. Amendment No. 23 proposes that when the mayor appoints persons to the delivery board, he or she will consult with the EPA to ensure a person with relevant expertise is on the board. Amendment No. 25 proposes the delivery board, as chaired by the mayor, will have a role in supporting implementation of any climate action plan for Limerick.

I am proposing similar amendments to section 34 regarding the transport subgroup. As that is a sub-committee of the delivery board, it is appropriate these apply to both. Those amendments will be discussed in a later grouping.

Amendment No. 11 proposes a definition in section 29 for the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015, which is referred to in a number of the amendments I propose today. Amendment No. 24 is a minor technical drafting amendment consequent on substantive amendments. I trust Members will support these amendments.