Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2012
745. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the date on which the environmental law implementation group was established; the person who is chairman of this group; the membership of same; the number of meetings that have been held; the number of reports and conclusions issued; the action taken or to be taken as a result of the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48587/12]
View answerThe Environmental Law Implementation Group ( ELIG ) was established in December 2011 to assist in the protection and enhancement of Ireland’s environment by seeking to support further transposition, implementation and enforcement of environmental law through improved communication between policy makers and environmental non-Government organisations, including An Taisce. The membership of the ELIG will vary, depending on the environmental legislation under consideration. The ELIG is overseen by a Bureau, comprising one nominated representative from An Taisce, one nominated representative from the Environmental Pillar and two senior officials of my Department, which will normally meet bi-annually, with chairmanship of these meetings rotating between the members. Currently the nominated representatives are Ms. Attracta Ui Bhroin (An Taisce), Mr. Michael Ewing (Environmental Pillar) and Ms. Fiona Quinn and Mr. David Walsh of my Department. The role of the Bureau is to maintain an overview of all ELIG activity and to ensure that the ELIG facilitates a cohesive, consistent, efficient and timely approach to communication and consultation.
Since its establishment, the ELIG Bureau members have maintained regular contact by email and phone and have also met formally on two occasions - on 17 July and 24 September 2012. The next ELIG Bureau meeting is scheduled for 19 November 2012.
