Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

That is an issue I recognise there is a lot of interest in and we can work through that with a review. Some of this will be addressed through the Kieran Mulvey approach I am taking, which is to go out to all stakeholders, engage with them and listen to their views and concerns, some of which we may be able to advance and progress as part of our future framework coming from that strategy that has been promised in the programme for Government. There are others who I know will reflect on historical aspects. Kieran Mulvey is well able to listen – that is one of his strong points – but listening will not necessarily provide a solution to some of the issues. On the mussel farm that was recently granted approval by the Department, there is a process whereby a developer is entitled to apply. It is not dissimilar from the planning system we are all familiar with in our electoral areas. The process has to follow a particular path, taking into consideration all the conditions set out. A determination was reached based on the process and that determination was to grant approval. As with any planning permission application, people had an opportunity to make observations. In this instance, I understand observations were made and considered. A decision was taken to grant approval based on the application of the procedures and processes in place, but, as with the planning system we are familiar with, which includes An Bord Pleanála, one can appeal. In this case, an appeal is made to ALAB. ALAB is independent of the Department, as it should be, just as An Bord Pleanála is independent of a local authority that grants or refuses planning permission. I know that ALAB will follow the process and procedure. Of course, people are entitled to vent their frustration. I have sympathy for people with issues but I must be cognisant of the process and the principles of the rule of law, which will have to be allowed to take their course. Of course, I will happily accept the signatures collected and will be happy at political level to engage with people, but I must be very clear that respect for the rule of law requires me not to involve myself in any way with the decision ALAB will ultimately take. I have to respect that separation to protect all of us and the procedures in place.

Was there another issue?