asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he has reviewed the energy consumption implications of the various plans for physical development as published or currently under review by the various local planning authorities throughout the country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Energy Consumption.
8.
In accordance with the provisions of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Acts, 1963 and 1976, planning authorities are required to consult me before making development plans for their areas. The implication for energy consumption is a matter which I shall be taking into account in examining any plans which are referred to me in this context. The Deputy will, of course, be aware that I have only recently assumed responsibility for energy matters.
Might I ask the Minister how many of the local authorities to which he refers and which are obliged to forward plans have done so and specifically whether Dublin Corporation have already done so?
That is a separate question.
With respect, it arises directly out of the reply.
A number of the authorities have submitted plans at present being examined. I have not got information as to whether Dublin Corporation have submitted their plan.
Is there a time limit within which these plans have to be submitted?
The words "consult me before making development plans" in the reply should be emphasised. The direct responsibility for local authorities is with the Department of the Environment and with the Minister for the Environment. The word "consult" has been used in its very broadest meaning. It does not emphasise authorisation from Industry, Commerce and Energy.
Would it be meaningful to agree that a local authority would be obliged to forward some tangible documentation to the Minister?
Yes.
In other words, it would not be purely nebulous and fruitless?
I did not hear the Minister's full reply. Did I understand him to say that he has a system or method whereby his Department, in consultation with the Department of the Environment, can assess the energy implications of such development plans?
Responsibility for energy supplies and conservation was transferred to the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy in September 1977. Henceforth the Minister will have an opportunity of considering the energy implications of development plans referred to him.
Would the Minister agree that he will avail very positively of this opportunity and that his Department either have or will establish some way in which the energy implications of all development plans— most of which are now coming up for review—will be assessed by his Department?
There is an inter-departmental advisory committee on energy conservation, chaired by an officer of my Department. This committee review all aspects of energy consumption and conservation. The Department of the Environment are represented also on this committee and are fully conscious of the need to take into account the energy implications of development plans, particularly house building and road construction problems.
Did the Minister use a phrase in the last sentence of his reply saying that he is now responsible for energy matters?
I said I had only recently assumed responsibility for energy matters, meaning the Minister, Deputy O'Malley.
It would be of great assistance to the House if we could get from some member of the Government —something we have failed to get over three months—exactly what are the responsibilities of the Ministers of State. Will the Minister be responsible for energy matters now?
There is a question down and it will be answered in due course.
I have been asking the question for three months——
There is a question on the Order Paper.
Perhaps the Minister of State would permit the Minister himself to look into it.
Order, please. Question No. 9.