Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 470: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the co-ordination of the foreshore licensing regime and the planning code in addition to other regulatory codes; his views whether there is a clear need for greater simplification and coordination of regulations particularly on issues such as the development of marinas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27476/09]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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As a general principle, I believe that it is important to achieve the necessary co-ordination, and where possible rationalisation, of consent procedures and the removal of unnecessary regulation. When the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill was published on 3 June, I indicated that I would introduce, by way of committee stage amendments, new provisions aimed at better integrating the foreshore consent processes with the planning processes under the Planning Acts. The necessary work is underway in my Department in anticipation of the formal transfer of the foreshore functions into my Department, the initial focus is on integrating the foreshore consent process for major infrastructure projects with the consent process under the Strategic Infrastructure Act.