asked the Minister for the Environment the exact terms of reference and staffing arrangements which apply to the environmental management and monitoring sections of his Department; and the legislation which they are responsible for administering and monitoring.
Written Answers. - Environment Management and Monitoring.
363.
The Environment Division of my Department, which is in the charge of an assistant secretary, comprises the Planning Development, Sanitary Services, Environmental Services and Pollution Control Sections. There are corresponding units of professional and technical staff operating under the Chief Engineering Adviser. Details of the staffing arrangements are to be found in the State Directory, 1978, published by the Stationery Office.
The titles of the sections and units give a general indication of the functions and related responsibilities involved but these are subject to change from time to time having regard to staffing and other considerations. I do not think it would be useful to give detailed lists since the arrangements are subject to such review. I can, however, say that the purpose of the sections is to advise and assist me in the discharge of my functions and includes assembly and assessment of all relevant information, preparation of legislation and regulations, operation of loan, grant and subsidy arrangements and general administration including dealing with the EEC and with the local authorities.
The legislation comprises the following Acts—Local Government (Sanitary Services) Acts, 1878-1964; Alkali etc. Works Regulations Act, 1906; Water Supplies Act, 1942; Derelict Sites Act, 1961; Local Government (Planning and Development) Acts, 1963 and 1976; Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977; Relevant provisions of other Acts such as The Local Government (Ireland) Act, 1898; Local Government Acts, 1941 and 1955; Local Government (No. 2) Act, 1960; Housing Act, 1966; European Communities Act, 1973; and any relevant regulations made thereunder.