Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 February 2022
163. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the proposed establishment of dedicated resources within regional lead authorities to provide co-ordination, expertise and advice to support consistent enforcement of the new air quality regulations across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9326/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs outlined in the Programme for Government, I gave a commitment to develop an enhanced co-ordinated approach to air quality enforcement to support the work of the Local Authorities in enforcing all air quality legislation under their remit.
Officials from my Department and the Local Government Management Agency are now working together on the assessment of the sector and the requirements to ensure the most appropriate and cost effective enforcement structure is put in place.
This structure will establish the provision of enhanced co-ordination, expertise and advice to support consistent implementation of all air quality legislation across the country. I have secured funding of €1.2 million for 2022 to for the provision of additional supports in this regard.My Department is fully committed to supporting Local Authorities in their enforcement work and has already commenced work with the sector to develop guidance and training, and the sharing of best practice.
