The Deputy's first comment on his commitment and consultation is interesting because if one were to read statements made by him when in Opposition one would be given to understand that he was not interested in anything on the Mullaghmore site, or Gortlecka, as he would refer to it. Yet he championed a very different proposal while he was in Government. I agree with the Deputy's view on planning permission but that is a long way from the views he expressed in Opposition.
With regard to the consultative process, this should not be seen as an opportunity to rehash all the old arguments. There is a great deal of history involved in this whole issue which makes it difficult to address. This body will not only examine the site at Mullaghmore but it will also have an opportunity to examine the long-term benefits for the Burren as a whole. The Burren is not just a national park, it is a far greater area than that and, as responsible citizens, we must ensure it is preserved. The best way that can be done is through consultation with concerned local and national bodies.
The planning process is proceeding in the usual way, and I would like to see that process come to fruition. The last time we debated this matter Deputy Higgins agreed with me that it is not our prerogative to interfere in the planning process, that it must be independent.
With regard to the legal case, I understand there will be a hearing involving the Burren Action Group in the High Court on Monday. The decision of the planning authority to delay its decision until May 1999 is part of the due process to which I consented. It is a question of planning permission and it is outside my control.