In addition to its current functions, my Department will assume responsibility for the Environment Division of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government which includes:
- Environment Policy & Awareness;
- Climate Policy;
- EU and International Environmental Policy;
- Waste Policy & Resource Efficiency;
- Air Quality/Environmental Radiation Policy; and the
- Environment Advisory Unit.
The high level goals, actions and expected outcomes of the work of the Environment Division are set out in the Statement of Strategy of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government which is available at
www.environ.ie.
My Department will continue with the procurement process for the National Broadband Plan. I am in discussion with Minister Humphreys on the detailed arrangements to give effect to commitments in the Programme for a Partnership Government regarding her Department’s role in relation to the rollout phase of the National Broadband Plan. That role will include leading on the establishment of county or regional broadband taskforces and working with Local Authorities, Local Enterprise Offices, LEADER Groups and other relevant agencies to help accelerate the broadband network build in rural Ireland, once a contract(s) has been awarded. Minister Humphreys' Department will also assume responsibility for the post office network.
