asked the Minister for the Environment if he has any specialist within his Department dealing with the area of coastal zone management; if so, the number of staff he has employed; their terms of reference; and the relationships they have with An Foras Forbartha and the IIRS.
Written Answers. - Coastal Zone Management.
356.
My Department does not employ a specialist as such solely for dealing with the area of coastal zone management nor has my Department sole responsibility in this area. In particular, so far as physical planning is concerned, primary responsibility rests with maritime planning authorities. The duties of professional staff employed in my Department on matters relating to planning, development and environmental services include advice on matters which may be relevant to coastal zone management. In exercising its role, my Department keeps in close touch with research developments in An Foras Forbartha and the Institute of Industrial Research and Standards.