asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline the present arrangements governing environmental impact studies carried out by local authorities, particularly with regard to any criteria which may be in place in relation to the necessity for independent assessment of such studies; and if he has satisfied himself that the present arrangements are adequate in relation to ensuring that the actual assessment of the environmental impact is carried out by interests or professional persons other than those actually doing the work which is under study.
Written Answers. - Environmental Impact Studies.
122.
Environmental impact studies are prepared by or on behalf of local authorities for development by them to which the EC Directive on Environmental Impact Assessment applies. In the case of motorway schemes, such studies are carried out under the provisions of the European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Motorways) Regulations, 1988. Studies in respect of other relevant development are undertaken in accordance with instructions notified by my Department in July 1988.
Environmental impact studies prepared for motorway schemes and other development requiring my approval would be assessed by my Department, and studies in respect of other projects would be assessed by the local authority concerned. I am satisfied that these arrangements are consistent with the requirements of the EC Directive.