Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 December 2022
96. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide an update on the required establishment of dedicated resources within regional lead authorities to provide co-ordination, expertise and advice to ensure enforcement of the new air-quality regulations nationwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62729/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department and the Local Government Management Agency are continuing to work together to establish an enhanced enforcement support structure to be established next year. This structure will support the provision of improved co-ordination, expertise, and advice to support consistent implementation of air quality legislation across the country. A business case for a new structure has been developed and is expected to be presented to the sector for approval in early 2023. In the interim, my Department is also continuing to engage with enforcement personnel on the ground, developing guidance and training, and supporting the sharing of best practice in relation to a range of legislative obligations that are under the remit of the Local Authorities.I have also made grant funding available to support Local Authorities through a pilot solid fuels enforcement scheme to support innovation and enhanced enforcement of the new solid fuel regulations. We will continue to work with the sector in the coming months to provide further co-ordination and support as appropriate.
