Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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122. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment further to Parliamentary Question No. 179 of 16 December 2021, if appropriate financial resources have been allocated to local authorities to implement appropriate enforcement measures as referred to in the reply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63445/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Local Authorities are, and will continue to be, responsible for the enforcement of solid fuel regulations and Local Authorities are responsible for allocating the appropriate finances and resources to ensure they can fulfill all their air quality enforcement obligations. Discussions with the Local Authority sector have commenced with the intention of establishing dedicated resources within regional lead authorities to provide co-ordination, expertise and advice to support consistent implementation of air quality legislation across the country.

My Department is fully committed to supporting Local Authorities in this regard and has already commenced work with the sector to develop guidance, training and the sharing of best practice. In addition, I have secured funding of €1.2 million for 2022 to enhance enforcement expertise, including through the provision of additional supports for the most effective model of enforcement which will be delivered through the regional lead authorities.