Tithe an Oireachtais
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
TUARASCÁIL BHLIANTÚIL
EANÁIR 2017 – NOLLAIG 2017
Houses of the Oireachtas
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
ANNUAL REPORT
JANUARY 2017 – DECEMBER 2017
32CCAE007
Tithe an Oireachtais
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
TUARASCÁIL BHLIANTÚIL
EANÁIR 2017 – NOLLAIG 2017
______
Houses of the Oireachtas
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
ANNUAL REPORT
JANUARY 2017 – DECEMBER 2017
32CCAE007
Annual Report 2017
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Content and Format of Report ...... 1
2. Establishment and Functions ...... 1 2.1. Establishment of the Select Committee ...... 1
2.2 Establishment of the Joint Committee ...... 1 2.3 Functions of the Joint Committee ...... 1
3. Chairman, Vice-chairman and Membership ...... 2
4. Meetings, Attendance and Recording ...... 2
5. Number and Duration of Meetings...... 3 5.1 Joint Committee ...... 3
5.2 Select Committee...... 3
6. Witnesses attending before the Committees ...... 3
7. committee Reports published...... 3
8. Travel ...... 4
9. EU Mainstreaming ...... 4 9.1 Legislative Proposals ...... 4
10. Report on Functions and Powers ...... 12
Appendix 1: Orders of Reference – Joint Committee ...... 13 A: Functions of the Committee – ...... 13
B: Scope and Context of Activities of Committees ...... 16 C: Establishment of Select Committees: Dáil Éireann Motion, 16 June 2016 ...... 17
D: Establishment of Select Committees: Seanad Éireann Motion, 21 July 2016 ...... 19
E: Functions of the Joint Committee ...... 21
F: Statutory Functions - Joint Committee ...... 27
Appendix 2: Membership of The Joint Committee ...... 33 Dáil Select Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment ...... 34 Seanad Select Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment ...... 35
Appendix 3: Meetings of the JOINT Committee ...... 37
Appendix 4: Minutes of Meetings of the Joint Committee ...... 46
Appendix 5: Meetings of the SELECT Committee ...... 128
Appendix 6: Proceedings of the Select Committee [Imeachtaí) ...... 129
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1. CONTENT AND FORMAT OF REPORT
This report has been prepared pursuant to Standing Order 89 (3), (4), (5) and (6) (Dáil Éireann) and Standing Order 76 (3), (4), (5) and (6) (Seanad Éireann) which provide for the Joint Committee to-
undertake a review of its procedure and its role generally; prepare an annual work programme; lay minutes of its proceedings before both Houses; make an annual report to both Houses.
At its meeting on the 12 June, 2018, the Joint Committee agreed that all these items should be included in this report covering the period from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017.
2. ESTABLISHMENT AND FUNCTIONS
2.1. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
The Dáil Select Committee was established by Order of Dáil Éireann of 16 June 2016, to consider Bills, Estimates for Public Services, Motions, and the terms of any international agreement involving a charge on public funds, which come within the aegis of the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment.
The Select Committee may also consider Annual Output Statements, Value for Money Reviews and Policy Reviews prepared by the relevant Government Department.
2.2 ESTABLISHMENT OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
The Dáil Select Committee, under the same Order, was enjoined with a Select Committee of Seanad Éireann, established by Order of Seanad Éireann of 21 July 2016, to form the Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment.
2.3 FUNCTIONS OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
Among the principal functions of the Joint Committee are to consider—
public affairs administered by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment; matters of policy for which the Minister of Communications, Climate Action and Environment are responsible; legislative and expenditure proposals of the Departments;
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EU legislative proposals; certain matters relating to bodies under the aegis of the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The Orders of Reference of the Dáil Select Committee and the Joint Committee are set out at Appendix 1.
3. CHAIRMAN, VICE-CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERSHIP
Dáil SO 93(2) provides for “a proportion of Chairman post shall be allocated to the party or parties in government and each group in the Dáil (as defined in SO143) … by means of the D’Hondt System”. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton was appointed as Chairman of the Select Committee on 22 June 2016 by an Order of Dáil Éireann. The Chairman of the Select Committee is also the Chairman of the Joint Committee. Deputy James Lawless was elected as Vice-Chairman of the Joint Committee on the 28 February 2016.
Membership of the Committee, including all internal changes within the reported period, is listed at Appendix 2.
4. MEETINGS, ATTENDANCE AND RECORDING
Meetings of the Joint Committee and Select Committee took place in the Committee rooms in Leinster House 2000. Meetings were in public unless otherwise ordered by the Committee.
Committee proceedings were broadcast live within Leinster House and also made available to RTÉ, TV3 and TG4. Proceedings were also webcast making them available worldwide on the internet. Since September 2014 the proceedings of Committees in public session, typically recorded but occasionally live, are broadcast on the dedicated parliamentary channel Oireachtas TV which is available on these channels:
Saorview 22, Sky 574, Virgin Media 207, eir Vision 504 Vodaphone Channels 201, 207 and 208
An Official Report (Parliamentary Debates) of the public meetings of the Committee may be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas website at www.oireachtas.ie.
Copies of other reports published by the Joint Committee are also available on the Oireachtas Committee website pages at www.oireachtas.ie. A list of these reports is set out at paragraph 7.
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5. NUMBER AND DURATION OF MEETINGS
5.1 JOINT COMMITTEE
The Joint Committee met on 21 occasions during the period under report. The number of hours of discussion involved in these meetings was in excess of 41 hours.
The subject matter of each meeting of the Joint Committee, including the groups, organisations or individuals who attended the meetings, is detailed in Appendix 3.
The Minutes of Proceedings of the Joint Committee in public session are attached at Appendix 4.
5.2 SELECT COMMITTEE
The Dáil Select Committee met on 5 occasions during the period under report. The number of hours of discussion involved in these meetings was 4 hours.
The subject matter of each meeting, including the groups, organisations or individuals who attended the meetings of the Select Committee, is detailed in Appendix 5.
The proceedings (Imeachtaí) of the Select Committee are attached at Appendix 6.
6. WITNESSES ATTENDING BEFORE THE COMMITTEES
During the period, the number of speaking witnesses for each of the Committees was as follows:
COMMITTEE NAME NUMBER OF WITNESSES
Joint Committee 106
7. COMMITTEE REPORTS PUBLISHED
1. Report of the Joint Committee on the detailed scrutiny of the Prohibition of the Exploration and Extraction of Onshore Petroleum Bill 2016, 32CCAE001
2. Report on the Future Funding of Public Sector Broadcasting, 32CCAE002
3. Annual Report 2016, 32CCAE003
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8. TRAVEL
The Joint Committee undertook the following travel in accordance with its Orders of Reference in connection with its Work Programme.
Purpose of travel: Attendance at the Inter-Parliamentary Union meeting, and
the COP23 talks on Climate Change.
Date and Destination: Saturday 11 November 2017 to Tuesday 14 November, Bonn, Germany.
Members travelling: Deputies Eamon Ryan and Bríd Smith
Accompanying Official: Leo Bollins (Clerk).
9. EU MAINSTREAMING
9.1 LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS
From January to December 2017, the Joint Committee considered EU matters at 7 meetings involving consideration of some 27 legislative proposals, of which further action or scrutiny was taken on 12 proposals:
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EU SCRUTINY – COMS CONSIDERED IN 2017
Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2016)43 The use of the 470-790 MHz It was agreed that that this frequency band in the Union. proposal does not require
further scrutiny.
COM(2016)53 Establishing an information It was agreed that that this exchange mechanism with regard to proposal does not require
intergovernmental agreements and further scrutiny. non-binding instruments between Member States and third countries in the field of energy and repealing Decision No 994/2012/EU.
COM(2016)175 Proposal for a Council Decision It was agreed that that this approving the conclusion, by the proposal does not require
European Commission, of the further scrutiny. Agreement between the European Atomic Energy Community and the Government of the Republic of India for research and development cooperation in the field of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy
COM(2016)285 Proposal for a Regulation of the It was agreed at the meeting European Parliament and of the of the 17 October 2017 that
Council on cross - border parcel further scrutiny was required delivery services and the Policy Advisor would prepare a briefing note.
COM(2016)287 Proposal for a Directive of the It was agreed that this European Parliament and of the proposal does not warrant
Council amending Directive further scrutiny. 2010/13/EU on the coordination of
certain provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audio-visual media services in view of changing market realities
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Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2016)759 Proposal for a Regulation of the It was agreed at the meeting on European Parliament and of the the 31 January, 2017 that this
Council on the Governance of proposal warrants further scrutiny. the Energy Union, amending It was also agreed that officials Directive 94/22/EC, Directive from the Department be invited to 98/70/EC, Directive present their views on the 2009/31/EC, Regulation (EC) No proposal. 663/2009, Regulation (EC) No
715/2009, Directive 2009/73/EC, Council Directive It was agreed at the meeting of 2009/119/EC, Directive the 14 February 2017 that this 2010/31/EU, Directive proposal warrants further scrutiny. 2012/27/EU, Directive It was also agreed that the views 2013/30/EU and Council of the relevant stakeholders would Directive (EU) 2015/652 and be sought repealing Regulation (EU) No
525/2013 It was agreed at the meeting of the 28 February, 2017 that this proposal does not warrant further scrutiny. It was also agreed that there are no subsidiarity concerns with this proposal. COM(2016)761 Proposal for a Directive of the It was agreed at the meeting of European Parliament and of the the 17 January, 2017 that this
Council amending Directive proposal warrants further scrutiny. 2012/27/EU on energy It was also agreed to invite efficiency officials from the Department to get their views on the proposal.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 14 February 2017 that this proposal warrants further scrutiny. It was also agreed that the views of the relevant stakeholders would be sought.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 28 February, 2017 that this proposal does not warrant further scrutiny. It was also agreed that there are no subsidiarity concerns with this proposal.
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Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2016)767 Proposal for a Directive of the It was agreed at the meeting on European Parliament and of the 31 January, 2017
the Council on the promotion that this proposal warrants further of the use of energy from scrutiny. renewable sources (recast) It was also agreed that officials from the Department be invited to present their views on the proposal.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 14 February 2017 that this proposal warrants further scrutiny. It was also agreed that the views of the relevant stakeholders would be sought.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 28 February, 2017 that this proposal does not warrant further scrutiny. It was also agreed that there are no subsidiarity concerns with this proposal. COM(2016)789 Proposal for a Decision of the It was agreed at the meeting of European Parliament and of the 28 March 2017 that this
the Council amending Directive Proposal warrants further scrutiny 87/217/EEC of the Council, in the form of a note from the Directive 2003/87/EC of the Department on the current policy. European Parliament & of the It was also agreed that there are Council, Directive 2009/31/EC no subsidiarity concerns with this of the European Parliament proposal. and of the Council, Regulation
(EU) No 1257/2013 of the European Parliament & of the It was agreed at the meeting of Council, Council Directive the 17 October 2017 that that this 86/278/EEC & Council Directive proposal does not require further 94/63/EC as regards scrutiny. procedural rules in the field of environmental reporting and repealing Council Directive 91/692/EEC
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Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2016)861 Proposal for a It was agreed at the meeting on the 31 Regulation of the January, 2017 European Parliament that this proposal warrants further and of the Council on scrutiny. the internal market for It was also agreed that officials from the electricity (recast) Department be invited to present their views on the proposal.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 14 February 2017 that this proposal warrants further scrutiny. It was also agreed that the views of the relevant stakeholders would be sought.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 28 February, 2017 that this proposal does not warrant further scrutiny. It was also agreed that there are no subsidiarity concerns with this proposal.
COM(2016)862 Proposal for a It was agreed that this proposal does not Regulation of the warrant further scrutiny. European Parliament and of the Council on It was also agreed that there are no risk-preparedness in subsidiarity concerns with this proposal. the electricity sector and repealing Directive 2005/89/EC
COM(2016)863 Proposal for a It was agreed at the meeting on the 31 Regulation of the January, 2017 European Parliament that this proposal warrants further and of the Council scrutiny. establishing a It was also agreed that officials from the European Union Department be invited to present their Agency for the views on the proposal. Cooperation of Energy Regulators (recast) It was agreed at the meeting of the 14 February 2017 that this proposal warrants further scrutiny. It was also agreed that the views of the relevant stakeholders would be sought.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 28 February, 2017 that this proposal does not warrant further scrutiny. It was also agreed that there are no subsidiarity concerns with this proposal.
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Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2016)864 Proposal for a Directive of It was agreed at the meeting on the the European Parliament 31 January, 2017 and of the Council on that this proposal warrants further common rules for the scrutiny. internal market in It was also agreed that officials from electricity (recast) the Department be invited to present their views on the proposal.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 14 February 2017 that this proposal warrants further scrutiny. It was also agreed that the views of the relevant stakeholders would be sought.
It was agreed at the meeting of the 28 February, 2017 that this proposal does not warrant further scrutiny. It was also agreed that there are no subsidiarity concerns with this proposal. COM(2017)10 Proposal for a Regulation It was agreed that this proposal does of the European Parliament not warrant further scrutiny. and of the Council concerning the respect for It was also agreed that there are no private life and the subsidiarity concerns with this protection of personal data proposal. in electronic communications and repealing Directive 2002/58/EC (Regulation on Privacy and Electronic Communications) COM(2017)23 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal does Regulation amending not warrant further scrutiny. Annex III to Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the hazardous property HP 14 (ʻEcotoxic’) COM(2017)38 Proposal for a Directive of It was agreed that this proposal does the European Parliament not warrant further scrutiny. and of the Council amending Directive It was also agreed that there are no 2011/65/EU on the subsidiarity concerns with this restriction of the use of proposal. certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment
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Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2017)51 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal Decision on the conclusion warrants further scrutiny in the form of the agreement to of a note containing further amend the Montreal information. Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer adopted in Kigali
COM(2017)54 Proposal for a Regulation It was agreed at the meeting of the 28 of the European Parliament March 2017 that this proposal and of the Council warrants further scrutiny in the form amending Directive of a note containing further statistics 2003/87/EC to continue and facts. current limitations of scope for aviation activities and It was also agreed that there are no to prepare to implement a subsidiarity concerns with this global market-based proposal. measure from 2021 It was agreed at the meeting of the 17 October 2017 that further scrutiny was required.
It was also agreed that Officials from the Department would be invited to brief the Committee on the proposal.
COM(2017)73 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal does Decision establishing the not warrant further scrutiny. position to be adopted on behalf of the European Union within the Conference of the Parties with regard to amendments of Annex III to the Rotterdam Convention.
COM(2017)83 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal does Decision on the adoption of not warrant further scrutiny. the 2016-2019 High Flux Reactor supplementary research programme to be implemented by the Joint Research Centre for the European Atomic Energy Community.
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Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2017)132 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal does Decision on the position to not warrant further scrutiny.
be adopted, on behalf of
the European Union, at the Eighth Conference of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants regarding the proposals for amendments of Annexes A and C.
COM(2017)366 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal does Decision on the position to not warrant further scrutiny.
be adopted, on behalf of
the European Union, at the sixth session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Aarhus Convention regarding compliance case ACCC/C/2008/32.
COM(2017)477 Proposal for a Regulation It was agreed at the meeting of the 27 of the European Parliament March 2017 that this proposal requires
and of the Council on further scrutiny. ENISA, the "EU
Cybersecurity Agency", and repealing Regulation It was agreed at the meeting of the 7 (EU) 526/2013, and on November 2017, that there are no Information and subsidiarity issues with this proposal. Communication It was further agreed that this Technology cybersecurity proposal required further scrutiny. certification (''Cybersecurity Act'')
COM(2017)495 Proposal for a Regulation It was agreed at the meeting of the 27 of the European Parliament March 2017 that this proposal requires
and of the Council on a further scrutiny. framework for the free It was agreed at the meeting of the 7 flow of non-personal data November 2017, that there are no in the European Union subsidiarity issues with this proposal. It was further agreed that this proposal required further scrutiny.
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Proposal No. Proposal Title Outcome
COM(2017)660 Proposal for a Directive of It was agreed that there are no the European Parliament subsidiarity issues in relation to this
and of the Council proposal. amending Directive
2009/73/EC concerning common rules for the It was further agreed to seek internal market in natural additional briefing material from the gas Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environment Additional material supplied 13/12/17. It was agreed that this proposal does not require further scrutiny.
COM(2017)427 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal does Decision on the conclusion, not warrant further scrutiny. on behalf of the European Union, of an Agreement between the European Union and the Swiss Confederation on the Linking of their Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Systems.
COM(2017)428 Proposal for a Council It was agreed that this proposal does Decision on the signing, on not warrant further scrutiny. behalf of the European Union, of an Agreement between the European Union and the Swiss Confederation on the linking of their Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Systems
10. REPORT ON FUNCTIONS AND POWERS
The Joint Committee is currently satisfied with its present procedures and role.
______
Hildegarde Naughton T.D. Chairman 4 July 2018
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APPENDIX 1: ORDERS OF REFERENCE – JOINT COMMITTEE
A: FUNCTIONS OF THE COMMITTEE –
Derived From Standing Orders [DSO 84A; SSO 70A]
1) The Select Committee shall consider and report to the Dáil on—
a) such aspects of the expenditure, administration and policy of a Government Department or Departments and associated public bodies as the Committee may select, and
b) European Union matters within the remit of the relevant Department or Departments.
2) The Select Committee appointed pursuant to this Standing Order may be joined with a Select Committee appointed by Seanad Éireann for the purposes of the functions set out in this Standing Order, other than at paragraph (3), and to report thereon to both Houses of the Oireachtas.
1) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1), the Select Committee appointed pursuant to this Standing Order shall consider, in respect of the relevant Department or Departments, such— a) Bills, b) proposals contained in any motion, including any motion within the meaning of Standing Order 187, c) Estimates for Public Services, and d) other matters as shall be referred to the Select Committee by the Dáil, and e) Annual Output Statements including performance, efficiency and effectiveness in the use of public monies, and f) such Value for Money and Policy Reviews as the Select Committee may select.
4) The Joint Committee may consider the following matters in respect of the relevant Department or Departments and associated public bodies:
a) matters of policy and governance for which the Minister is officially responsible,
b) public affairs administered by the Department,
c) policy issues arising from Value for Money and Policy Reviews conducted or commissioned by the Department,
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d) Government policy and governance in respect of bodies under the aegis of the Department,
e) policy and governance issues concerning bodies which are partly or wholly funded by the State or which are established or appointed by a member of the Government or the Oireachtas,
f) the general scheme or draft heads of any Bill,
g) any post-enactment report laid before either House or both Houses by a member of the Government or Minister of State on any Bill enacted by the Houses of the Oireachtas,
h) statutory instruments, including those laid or laid in draft before either House or both Houses and those made under the European Communities Acts 1972 to 2009,
i) strategy statements laid before either or both Houses of the Oireachtas pursuant to the Public Service Management Act 1997,
j) annual reports or annual reports and accounts, required by law, and laid before either or both Houses of the Oireachtas, of the Department or bodies referred to in subparagraphs (d) and (e) and the overall performance and operational results, statements of strategy and corporate plans of such bodies, and
k) such other matters as may be referred to it by the Dáil from time to time.
5) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1), the Joint Committee appointed pursuant to this Standing Order shall consider, in respect of the relevant Department or Departments—
a) EU draft legislative acts standing referred to the Select Committee under Standing Order 114, including the compliance of such acts with the principle of subsidiarity,
b) other proposals for EU legislation and related policy issues, including programmes and guidelines prepared by the European Commission as a basis of possible legislative action,
c) non-legislative documents published by any EU institution in relation to EU policy matters, and
d) matters listed for consideration on the agenda for meetings of the relevant EU Council of Ministers and the outcome of such meetings.
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6) The Chairman of the Joint Committee appointed pursuant to this Standing Order, who shall be a member of Dáil Éireann, shall also be the Chairman of the Select Committee.
7) The following may attend meetings of the Select or Joint Committee appointed pursuant to this Standing Order, for the purposes of the functions set out in paragraph (5) and may take part in proceedings without having a right to vote or to move motions and amendments:
a) Members of the European Parliament elected from constituencies in Ireland, including Northern Ireland,
b) Members of the Irish delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, and
c) at the invitation of the Committee, other Members of the European Parliament.
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B: SCOPE AND CONTEXT OF ACTIVITIES OF COMMITTEES
(As Derived From Standing Orders) [DSO 84; SSO 70]
1) The Joint Committee may only consider such matters, engage in such activities, exercise such powers and discharge such functions as are specifically authorised under its orders of reference and under Standing Orders.
2) Such matters, activities, powers and functions shall be relevant to, and shall arise only in the context of, the preparation of a report to the Dáil and/or Seanad.
3) The Joint Committee shall not consider any matter which is being considered, or of which notice has been given of a proposal to consider, by the Committee of Public Accounts pursuant to Standing Order 186 and/or the Comptroller and Auditor General (Amendment) Act 1993.
4) The Joint Committee shall refrain from inquiring into in public session or publishing confidential information regarding any matter if so requested, for stated reasons given in writing, by—
a) a member of the Government or a Minister of State, or b) the principal office-holder of a body under the aegis of a Department or which is partly or wholly funded by the State or established or appointed by a member of the Government or by the Oireachtas:
Provided that the Chairman may appeal any such request made to the Ceann Comhairle / Cathaoirleach whose decision shall be final.
5) It shall be an instruction to all Select Committees to which Bills are referred that they shall ensure that not more than two Select Committees shall meet to consider a Bill on any given day, unless the Dáil, after due notice given by the Chairman of the Select Committee, waives this instruction on motion made by the Taoiseach pursuant to Dáil Standing Order 28. The Chairmen of Select Committees shall have responsibility for compliance with this instruction.
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C: ESTABLISHMENT OF SELECT COMMITTEES: DÁIL ÉIREANN MOTION, 16 JUNE 2016 Dáil Éireann Debate, Vol. 913 No. 3
(1) That Select Committees as set out in column (1) of the Schedule hereto are hereby appointed pursuant to Standing Order 84A.
(2) Each Select Committee shall perform the functions set out in Standing Order 84A in respect of the Government Department or Departments listed in column (2) opposite each Committee (in anticipation of the coming into effect of the necessary Government Orders in relation to names of Departments and titles of Ministers and transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions).
(3) The number of members appointed to each Select Committee shall be seven.
(4) Each Select Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 85 (1), (2) and (3).
(5) Each Select Committee shall be joined with a Select Committee appointed by Seanad Éireann to form a Joint Committee to carry out the functions set out in Standing Order 84A, other than at paragraph (3) thereof.
(6) Each Joint Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Orders 85 (other than paragraph (2A) thereof), 114 and 116.
(7) The Select Committee on Justice and Equality shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 115(1) (b).
(8) The Order of the Dáil of 10th March, 2016 in relation to the Standing Order 112 Select Committee is hereby rescinded and the Committee is accordingly dissolved. Schedule (extract):
Committee: Select Committee on Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources Department: Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources
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COMMITTEE TERMS OF REFERENCE: DÁIL ÉIREANN MOTION, 7 SEPTEMBER 2016
That, following Orders made by Government on 5 July, 2016, and 19 July, 2016, respectively, altering the names of Departments and titles of Ministers, the names of the Select Committees in column (1) of the Schedule below, which were established by Order of the Dáil of 16 June, 2016, are hereby amended as set out in column (2) of the Schedule and each such Committee shall perform the functions set out in Standing Order 84A in respect of the Government Department or Departments listed in column (3) opposite each Committee.
Select Committee established on 16 June 2016: Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources. New name of Select Committee: Communications, Climate Action and Environment. Government Department: Communications, Climate Action and Environment.
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D: ESTABLISHMENT OF SELECT COMMITTEES: SEANAD ÉIREANN MOTION, 21 JULY 2016
Seanad Éireann Debate, Vol. 247 No. 5
(1) That Select Committees as set out in column (1) of the Schedule hereto are hereby appointed pursuant to Standing Order 70A.
(2) Each Select Committee shall perform the functions set out in Standing Order 70A in respect of the Government Departments listed in column (2) opposite each Committee (in anticipation of the coming into effect of the necessary Government Orders in relation to names of Departments and titles of Ministers and transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions).
(3) The number of members appointed to each Select Committee shall be four.
(4) Each Select Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 71 (1), (2) and (3).
(5) Each Select Committee shall be joined with a Select Committee appointed by Dáil Éireann to form a Joint Committee to carry out the functions set out in Standing Order 70A.
(6) Each Joint Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Orders 71 (other than paragraph (2A) thereof), 107 and 109.
(7) The Select Committee on Justice and Equality shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 108(1) (b). Schedule (extract):
Committee: Select Committee on Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources Department: Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources
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COMMITTEE TERMS OF REFERENCE: SEANAD ÉIREANN MOTION 29 SEPTEMBER 2016
That, following Orders made by Government on 5th July, 2016, and 19th July, 2016, respectively, altering the names of Departments and titles of Ministers, the names of the Select Committees in column (1) of the Schedule below, which were established by Order of the Seanad of 21st July, 2016, are hereby amended as set out in column (2) of the Schedule and each such Committee shall perform the functions set out in Standing Order 70A in respect of the Government Department or Departments listed in column (3) opposite each Committee.
Select Committee established on 16 June 2016: Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources. Government Department: Communications, Climate Action and Environment New name of Select Committee: Communications, Climate Action and Environment.
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E: FUNCTIONS OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
OVERSIGHT OF THE DEPARTMENT
The joint committee shadows the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment, bodies under its aegis, and associated bodies.
The joint committee will also carry out ex ante, current year, and ex post scrutiny of the performance of the department, including output measures and financial indicators.
There are many bodies under the aegis of the department and they may be required to appear before the joint committee. The bodies under the remit of the department are listed below.
Policy
The committee may also, on its own initiative, initiate a review of policy of any area within its remit, or may also carry out a policy review combined with one or more other joint committees.
The functions of the department, and consequently the remit of this committee, can be broadly categorised into the following areas:
Communications, Broadcasting and Postal;
Climate Action and Energy; Environment and Natural Resources.
Pre Legislative Scrutiny
The committee may carry out prelegislative scrutiny of any legislative proposals from the Minister, including a public consultation exercise.
EU Scrutiny
The Committee also plays a role in the consideration of legislative proposals from the European Union. When the Committee is unsatisfied with a legislative proposal, it can make its observations known to the European Commission through either a reasoned opinion or a political contribution.
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Further information on European Union legislative proposals can be found on the following Web sites: European Commission IPEX (EU Interparliamentary Exchange).
Proposals under consideration by the Committee will be published on the committee's Web site.
Select Committee
The Dáil Select Committee mainly deals with bills and estimates referred by the Dáil.
PUBLIC SERVICE MANAGEMENT ACT, 1997
Appearance before committees of Houses of Oireachtas.
10.—The Secretary General of a Department or Head of a Scheduled Office or any other officer of the Department or Scheduled Office who is designated for the purposes of this section by the aforesaid Secretary General or Head and to whom the relevant responsibility for the performance of functions has been assigned, shall, when requested to do so in writing by a committee of either or both of the Houses of the Oireachtas authorised in that behalf to make the request in connection with the subject-matter before the committee, appear before the committee in relation to any strategy statement that has been laid before each House of the Oireachtas under section 5 (2) in respect of the Department or Scheduled Office.
ENGAGEMENT WITH CHAIRMEN DESIGNATE OF STATE BODIES UNDER THE AEGIS OF THE DEPARTMENT
The Government decision of May 2011 put new arrangements in place for the appointment of persons to State Boards and bodies.
Reference to this arrangement is also made in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Guidelines on Appointments to State Boards of November 2014.
The 2016 Programme for Government suggests that nominees for Chairs of State Boards will be required to have their nominations ratified by the relevant Oireachtas Committee prior to their appointment.
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This is also covered by Dáil Standing orders:
Powers of Select Committees.
85. Without prejudice to the generality of Standing Order 84, the Dáil may confer any or all of the following powers on a Select Committee: …
(6B) power to require that the Chairperson designate of a body or agency under the aegis of a Department shall, prior to his or her appointment, attend before the Select Committee to discuss his or her strategic priorities for the role; …
OVERSIGHT OF BODIES UNDER THE AEGIS OF THE DEPARTMENT
Communications, Broadcasting, Postal
An Post
An Post is Ireland's national postal service provider. It provides postal, communication, retail and money transmission services. As one of Ireland's largest commercial companies, An Post employs over 9,600 people in retail, processing and delivery points. www.anpost.ie
Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg)
ComReg is the statutory body responsible for the regulation of the electronic communications sector. This includes the telecommunications, radio communications, broadcasting transmission and the postal sector. www.comreg.ie
Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA)
The Digital Hub Development Agency was established under the Digital Hub Development Act 2003. It oversees the development of the Digital Hub, Ireland's flagship in the digital media sector. www.thedigitalhub.ie
Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ)
RTÉ is the national public service broadcaster. It is required to provide a comprehensive range of programmes on its radio and television services. www.RTÉ.ie
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Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI)
The BAI was established on 1st October 2009, and is the regulator of broadcasting in Ireland. It BAI has assumed the roles previously held by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) and the Broadcasting Complaints Commission (BCC). www.bai.ie
Teilifís na Gaeilge (TG4)
TG4 is an Irish Language television station based at Baile na hAbhann, Co. Galway. TG4 was established as an independent statutory body in 2007 under the Broadcasting Act, 2001. www.tg4.ie
Climate Action and Energy
Electricity Supply Board (ESB)
ESB was established in accordance with the Electricity Supply Board Acts 1927 – 2001. It is a corporate body which controls and develops Ireland's electricity network. ESB is involved in the generation and supply of electricity to both domestic and commercial users. Employing over 7,000 people, it is the largest Electricity Utility in the state. ESB is actively diversifying their portfolio to include renewable energy and communication networks. www.esb.ie
EirGrid
EirGrid PLC was established to act as the independent Transmission System Operator (TSO), in line with the requirements of the EU Electricity Directive. EirGrid became operational as the TSO on 1 July 2006 www.eirgrid.com
Commission for Energy Regulation (CER)
Established in 1999, CER is Ireland's independent energy regulator. It has a wide range of economic, customer protection and safety responsibilities in energy sector. In addition, the CER is Ireland's economic regulator of the Irish public water and wastewater sector. Policy for this area is the responsibility of the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government. www.cer.ie
Note: in accordance with the Energy Act 2016, CER will be renamed CRU (Commission for Regulation of Utilities).
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Bord na Móna
Bord na Móna is the supplier of products and services based principally on peat. The company is also providing products and services in the environmental, renewable energy, electricity generation and waste management business sectors. www.bnm.ie
National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA)
NORA was established as a stand-alone agency under the NORA Act 2007. Its main function is to maintain Ireland’s 90 days of strategic oil reserves for use in an oil supply disruption. www.nora.ie
Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)
The SEAI, formerly SEI, was established in 2002 to promote and assist the development of sustainable energy. www.seai.ie
Irish National Petroleum Corporation (INPC)
INPC is a state company which owned the Whitegate refinery and Bantry Bay Terminal on Whiddy Island. These were sold by the state in 2001, and since then the INPC has had no staff. It is currently overseen by a 3 person technical board. The board’s functions relate to upholding the Minister's rights and obligations under the 2001 Sale and Purchase Agreement. This principally involves managing environmental claims.
Environment And Natural Resources
Environmental Protection Agency
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is at the front line of environmental protection and policing. We ensure that Ireland's environment is protected, and we monitor changes in environmental trends to detect early warning signs of neglect or deterioration. www.epa.ie
Inland Fisheries Ireland
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) was established under the Inland Fisheries Act 2010. IFI is the agency responsible for the protection, management and conservation of Ireland's inland fisheries and sea angling resources. www.fisheriesireland.ie
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Loughs Agency
The Loughs Agency was established under the British Irish Agreement Act 1999. It is a North South body under the co-sponsorship of the department. The Agency aims to provide effective conservation, management, promotion and development of the fisheries and marine resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. It is also responsible for the development and licensing of aquaculture, as well as the development of marine tourism www.loughs-agency.org.
Mining Board
The Mining Board is a Statutory Body established under Section 33 of the Minerals Development Act 1940. The Board is an appellate body principally involved in consideration as to whether minerals are excepted from provisions of the Minerals Development Act 1979 which vested in the Minister the exclusive right of working minerals in the State save for “excepted minerals”.
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F: STATUTORY FUNCTIONS - JOINT COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, CLIMATE ACTION AND ENVIRONMENT
BROADCASTING ACT 2009
Broadcasting Authority of Ireland – Accountability to the Joint Committee
Accountability of chief executive and chairpersons of Authority and statutory committees to other Oireachtas Committees.
20.—
(1) In this section “Committee” means a Committee appointed by either House of the Oireachtas or jointly by both Houses of the Oireachtas (other than the Committee on Members’ Interests of Dáil Éireann or the Committee on Members’ Interests of Seanad Éireann) or a subcommittee of such a Committee.
(2) Subject to subsection (4), the chief executive shall, at the request in writing of a Committee, attend before it to give account for the general administration of the Authority and a statutory committee.
(3) Subject to subsection (4), the chairperson of the Authority or a statutory committee shall at the request in writing of a Committee, attend before it to represent the views of the Authority or a statutory committee.
(4) The chief executive or chairperson shall not be required to give account before, or represent the views of the Authority or a statutory committee to, a Committee for any matter which is or has been or may at a future time be the subject of proceedings before a court or tribunal in the State.
(5) Where the chief executive or chairperson is of the opinion that a matter in respect of which the chief executive or chairperson is requested to give an account before, or represent the views of the Authority or a statutory committee to, a Committee is a matter to which subsection (4) applies, he or she shall inform the Committee of that opinion and the reasons for the opinion and, unless the information is conveyed to the Committee at a time when the chief executive or chairperson is before it, the information shall be so conveyed in writing.
(6) Where the chief executive or chairperson has informed a Committee of his or her opinion in accordance with subsection (5) and the Committee does not withdraw the request referred to in subsection (2) or subsection (3) in so far as it relates to a matter the subject of that opinion—
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(a) the chief executive or chairperson may, not later than 21 days after being informed by the Committee of its decision not to do so, apply to the High Court in a summary manner for determination of the question whether the matter is one to which subsection (4) applies, or
(b) the chairperson of the Committee may, on behalf of the Committee, make such an application,
and the High Court may determine the matter.
(7) Pending the determination of an application under subsection (6), the chief executive or chairperson shall not attend before the Committee to give account for or represent the views of the Authority or a statutory committee in respect of the matter the subject of the application.
(8) If the High Court determines that the matter concerned is one to which subsection (4) applies, the Committee shall withdraw the request referred to in subsection (2) or subsection (3), but if the High Court determines that subsection (4) does not apply, the chief executive or chairperson shall attend before the Committee to give account for or represent the views of the Authority or a statutory committee in respect of the matter.
The Statutory Committees of the BAI are:
The Contract Awards Committee
The Compliance Committee
The Finance, Audit and Risk Committee
Proposing Members of the boards of BAI, RTÉ, and TG4
The Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment has a role in proposing members of the boards of certain bodies for nomination by the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment for appointment by the Government in accordance with the Broadcasting Act 2009.
The Broadcasting Act 2009 requires the committee to nominate members of the board (including a panel) of the following broadcasting bodies:
BAI (Broadcasting Authority of Ireland) (4 of 9 members);
RTÉ (Raidió Teilifís Éireann) (4 of 12 members);
TG4 (Teilifís na Gaeilge) (4 of 12 members).
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Chairman and Director General of RTÉ and TG4 accountable to the Joint Committee
The Act also provides that the director general shall attend a meeting of the committee to give an account of the general administration of their corporation, and the chairman shall attend a meeting of the committee to represent the board of their corporation.
Media Mergers
The following is an extract from the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment's Guidelines on Media Mergers May 2015 based on the Broadcasting Act 2009 (as amended).
4.4.3 Submissions
The BAI must invite public submissions and forward a copy of the request to the relevant Oireachtas Committee inviting them to make a submission.
All submissions must be made within 20 working days from the date of publication of the request.
Submissions should clearly indicate any information which should be treated as confidential.
4.4.8 Basis of the BAI’s recommendation
The BAI when making its report shall form a view as to whether the result of the media merger is likely to be contrary to public interest in protecting the plurality of the media in the State. The BAI shall have regard to -...
(c) All submissions made and information provided
i. to the Minister by the undertakings involved in the media merger
ii. to the BAI by the undertakings involved in the media merger, by any other person in response to an invitation for submissions under section 28E (2) (b) of the Act or by the Joint Oireachtas Committee in response to an invitation for submissions under section 28E (2) (c) of the Act, ...
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INLAND FISHERIES ACT 2010
Proposing members of the board
The Inland Fisheries Act 2010 requires the committee to nominate members of the board (including a panel) of Inland Fisheries Ireland (3 of 9 members)
Chairman and Chief Executive Accountable to the Joint Committee
The Act also provides that the chief executive (or chairperson or an employee) shall attend a meeting of the committee.
ELECTRICITY REGULATION ACT 1999
CRU (The Commission for Regulation of Utilities)
Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) was established in 1999 as Ireland's independent energy regulator. Its functions were substantially expanded by the Gas (Interim Regulation) Act 2002 and following the commencement of the Energy Act 2016, The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) changed its name to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) (6 October 2017) to fully reflect its broadened remit and mission to regulate water, energy and energy safety in the public interest.
The CRU is Ireland’s independent energy and water regulator and has a wide range of economic, customer protection and safety responsibilities.
It has a wide range of economic, customer protection and safety responsibilities in energy sector. In addition, the CRU is Ireland's economic regulator of the Irish public water and wastewater sector. Policy for this area is the responsibility of the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government.
Policy directions to Commission.
10 A. — (3) Before giving a direction under subsection (1), the Minister shall—
(a) provide a draft of the proposed direction
to— (i) the Commission,
(ii) the Joint Committee referred to in paragraph 26 of Schedule 1 of this Act,
(iii) the SEM Committee, and
(iv) any other person the Minister deems appropriate,
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment inviting them, in writing, to make representations on the proposal and specifying the period (being not less than 30 days from the giving of the draft to the Commission or publication under paragraph (b), whichever is the later) within which representations relating to the proposal may be made by them, and…
Accountability of Commission to the Joint Committee
SCHEDULE
The Commission for Electricity Regulation
26. From time to time, and whenever so requested, the Commission shall account for the performance of its functions to a Joint Committee of the Oireachtas and shall have regard to any recommendations of such Joint Committee relevant to its functions.
COMMUNICATIONS REGULATION ACT 2002
ComReg (Commission for Communications Regulation)
Communications Regulation Act 2002
Laying of orders and regulations before Houses of Oireachtas.
3.— (1) Other than an order under section 4 , every order or regulation made under this Act by the Minister or the Minister for the Environment and Local Government shall be laid before each of the Houses of the Oireachtas as soon as practicable after it is made.
(2) Either House of the Oireachtas may, by resolution passed within 21 sitting days after the day on which an order or a regulation was laid before it in accordance with subsection (1), annul the order or regulation.
(3) The annulment of an order or regulation under this section takes effect immediately on the passing of the resolution concerned, but does not affect anything that was [done under the order or regulation] before the passing of the resolution.
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Accountability of the Commission to the Joint Committee
34.—
(2) From time to time, and whenever so requested, the Commission shall account for the performance of its functions to a Committee of one or both Houses of the Oireachtas.
NATIONAL OIL RESERVES AGENCY ACT 2007
Accountability of the Chief Executive to the Joint Committee
Information to Oireachtas on performance of functions.
31.— (2) Whenever requested to do so by a committee (other than the Committee referred to in subsection (1)) of one or both Houses of the Oireachtas, the chief executive shall account to such committee for the performance of the functions of the Agency and any of its subsidiaries.
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APPENDIX 2: MEMBERSHIP OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
Member Party
Deputies:
Hildegarde Naughton [Chairman] Fine Gael
James Lawless [Vice Chairman] Fianna Fáil
Timmy Dooley Fianna Fáil
Michael Lowry Rural Independent Group
Eamon Ryan Social Democrats - Green Party Group
Bríd Smith Solidarity - People Before Profit
Brian Stanley Sinn Féin
Senators:
Terry Leyden Fianna Fáil
Tim Lombard Fine Gael
Michael McDowell Independent Group
Joe O’Reilly Fine Gael
The Dáil Committee of Selection nominated the members of the Dáil Select committee on 15 June 2016 and the report nominating Deputy Hildegarde Naughton to be chairman of the committee was agreed by the Dáil on Thursday 16 June 2016.
The Seanad Committee of Selection report on membership of the Seanad select committee was agreed by the Seanad on 21 July 2016.
This committee's name was changed from the Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources on Thursday 29 September 2016.
Deputy James Lawless was elected vice chairman of the joint committee on Tuesday 28 February 2017.
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DÁIL SELECT COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, CLIMATE ACTION AND ENVIRONMENT
Deputy Timmy Dooley Deputy James Lawless Fianna Fáil Fianna Fáil [Vice Chairman]
Deputy Michael Lowry Deputy Hildegarde Naughton Deputy Eamon Ryan Rural Independent Group Fine Gael Social Democrats [Chairman] - Green Party Group
Deputy Bríd Smith Deputy Brian Stanley Solidarity - Sinn Féin People Before Profit
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SEANAD SELECT COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, CLIMATE ACTION AND ENVIRONMENT
Senator Terry Leyden Senator Tim Lombard Fianna Fáil Fine Gael
Senator Michael McDowell Senator Joe O’Reilly
Independent Group Fine Gael
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COMMITTEE CONTACT DETAILS
Anita Gibbons, Clerk to the Committee Anita Gibbons, Cléireach don Choiste
Joint Committee on Communications, An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid, Climate Action and Environment. Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol.
Houses of the Oireachtas, Tithe an Oireachtais,
Leinster House, Teach Laighean, Kildare Street, Sráid Chill Dara,
Dublin 2, Baile Átha Cliath 2, D02 XR20 D02 XR20
Ireland Éire
Email: [email protected]
Web site: http://www.oireachtas.ie/parliament/oireachtasbusiness/committees_list/ccae/ Telephone: 076 100 1854 or + 353 (0)1 618 3575
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APPENDIX 3: MEETINGS OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
The following are the details, in date order, of the scheduled meetings of the Joint Committee which took place during the period under report.
MEETING NO. TOPIC ORGANISATIONS, GROUPS AND
AND DATE INDIVIDUALS WHO ATTENDED
Department of Communications, Climate J08 (i) Private Business Action and Environment 17/01/2017 (ii) EU Scrutiny: COM (2016) Ms. Patricia Cronin – Assistant Secretary 761 General Ms. Barbara Leeson - Principal Officer (iii) Policy issues arising from Communications Regulation Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, (Postal Services) Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Amendment) Bill 2016 and Mr. William Parnell - Assistant Secretary General Report of the Post Office Mr. StJohn O’Connor - Principal Officer Network Business Development Group (and the Representatives from ComReg Implementation Group) (Commission for Communications Regulation) Mr. Kevin O’Brien – Commissioner Mr. George Merrigan - Director of Market Framework
Post Office Network Business Development Group Mr. Bobby Kerr - Chairman
An Post Mr. David McRedmond - Chief Executive Officer
Age Action Mr. Justin Moran - Head of Advocacy
Communications Workers Union Mr. Steve Fitzpatrick - General Secretary Mr. Ian McArdle - Head of Regulation
Irish Postmasters Union Mr. Ned O’Hara - General Secretary Mr. Paddy McCann – President
Tico Mail Works Mr. Alex Pigot - Chairman and Managing Director Mr. Michael O’Dwyer – Advisor to Managing Director
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Meeting No. Organisations, Groups and Topic and Date Individuals who attended
(i) Private Business (ii) Election of Vice-Chairman Department of Communications, Climate (iii) Scrutiny of EU legislative Action and Environment proposals : Mr. Matthew Collins - Assistant Secretary, Schedule A; Natural Resources Area COM (2016) 767 Ms. Orla Ryan - Principal Officer, Petroleum Exploration Division COM (2016)
COM (2016) 863 Geological Survey of Ireland J09 COM (2016) 864 Ms. Monica Lee - Principal Geologist 31/01/2017 COM (2016) 759 Environmental Protection Agency (iv) Policy issues arising Ms. Matt Crowe from the Prohibition of the Dr. Alice Wemaere Exploration and Extraction of Onshore Petroleum Bill 2016 CDM Smith Ireland Limited [PMB] and EPA led Joint Mr. Alan Hooper Research Programme on the Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing on the Environment and Human Health. Independent News and Media J10 (i) Private Business Mr. Robert Pitt - CEO 07/02/2017 (ii) The proposed acquisition Mr. Gerry Lennon - Managing Director, of CMNL Limited, formerly Regionals
Celtic Media Newspapers The Celtic Media Group Limited, by INM plc Mr. Frank Mulrennan - CEO (Independent News & Media Mr. Tadhg Carey - Editor, Westmeath and Holdings Limited) Offaly Independent
The National Union of Journalists Mr. Séamus Dooley - Irish Secretary Ms. Bernie Ní Fhlatharta - Leas Cathaoirleach, Irish Executive Council Mr. Ian McGuinness – Irish Organiser
Academics specialising in media ownership Dr. Roderick Flynn – School of Communications, Dublin City University Dr. Michael Foley – Former Lecturer in Journalism, School of Media, DIT Prof. Colum Kenny – Emeritus Professor, Dublin City University
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Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and and Date Individuals who attended J11 (i) EU Scrutiny Dept. of Communications, Climate Action 14/02/2017 and Environment Schedule A:
Mr. Kevin Brady - Principal Officer, Legislative Proposals: Strategic Energy Policy Division COM (2016) 759 Ms. Una Nic Giolla Choille - Principal COM (2016) 761 Officer, Electricity & Gas Regulation COM (2016) 767 Division COM (2016) 861 Ms. Rebecca Minch - Principal Officer, COM (2016) 862 Energy Efficiency & Affordability COM (2016) 864 Division COM (2016) 863 Mr. Eamonn Confrey - Principal (ii) The effect of the Officer, Decarbonisation Policy & proposed withdrawal of the Coordination Division United Kingdom from the Mr. Michael Goodwin - Principal European Union on the Irish Officer, Energy Security & energy market. Infrastructure Division
(iii) Private Business Mr. John O’Neill - Principal Officer, Climate Policy Division J12 (i) Election of Vice Chairman Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) 28/02/2017 Mr. Garrett Blaney - Chairman (ii) Scrutiny of EU legislative Ms. Aoife MacEvilly - proposals: Schedule A: The Commissioner "Clean Energy for all Europeans" package. Sustainable Energy of Authority of Ireland (SEAI) (iii) The effect of the Mr. Jim Gannon - CEO, proposed withdrawal of the Dr. Eimear Cotter - Low Carbon United Kingdom from the Technologies European Union, on the energy market in Ireland. Eirgrid Mr. Fintan Slye - CEO (iv) Private Business Mr. Rodney Doyle - Director,
Market Operations and General Manager Ms. Rosemary Steen - Director, External Affairs
Electricity Supply Board (ESB) Mr. Peter O'Shea - Head of Strategy and Regulation Mr. John Lawlor – Manager, Corporate Regulation and Strategy
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Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date
J13 (i) Private Business 28/03/2017
Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J14 (i) Review of Ireland’s Eirgrid 09/05/2017 Electricity Grid Development Strategy 2017 and the Mr. Fintan Slye - Chief Executive proposed Celtic Interconnector Mr. John Fitzgerald - Executive (Ireland – France) in the Director, Grid Development and context of Brexit Interconnection Ms. Rosemary Steen - Executive (ii) Private Business Director, External Affairs
Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J15 (i) Private Business ComReg (Commission for 23/05/2017 Communications Regulation) (ii) Review of the performance of ComReg's (Commission for Mr. Gerry Fahy - Chairperson Communications Regulation) Mr. Jeremy Godfrey - statutory functions and Commissioner Strategy Statement 2017 – Mr. Kevin O’Brien - 2019 Commissioner
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Meeting Topic Organisations, Groups and No. and Individuals who attended Date J16 (i) Decarbonising transport – Department of Communications, Climate 20/06/2017 the key role of alterative fuels Action and Environment and technologies including Mr. Eamonn Confrey - Principal electric vehicles Department of Transport, Tourism and
(ii) Private Business Sport Ms. Laura Behan - Principal, Head of the Climate Change Unit SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) Mr. Jim Gannon – CEO Mr. Graham Brennan - Transport Programme Manager Mr. Declan Meally - Representative CER (Commission for Energy Regulation) Mr. Paul McGowan - Chairman, Ms. Laura Brien - Director of Energy Markets &Smart Metering Mr. Garrett Blaney - Commissioner ESB (Electricity Supply Board) Mr. Paul Mulvaney - Executive Director for Innovation Mr. Denis O’Leary - Head of Smart Energy Technologies Gas Networks Ireland (GNI) Mr. Denis O’Sullivan - Head of Commercial Mr. Daniel FitzPatrick - Commercialisation Manager Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) Mr. Alan Nolan - Director General Mr. Brian Cooke - Deputy Director General Mr. Tom Cullen - Director Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) Mr. Jerry Kiersey - Deputy Vice President EV Owners Ireland(IEVOA) Mr. Frank Barr - Chairman Mr. Dave McCabe - Secretary Mr. Joe McCarthy
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Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and and Date Individuals who attended
J17 (i) Engagement with Mr. Paul Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) 04/07/2017 Holden, Chairman designate, Mr. Paul Holden - Chairman designate Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) Prof. Pauric Travers - Chairman (ii) Oversight of the Mr. Michael O'Keeffe - Chief Executive Broadcasting Authority of Ms. Stephanie Comey - Senior Ireland (BAI) Manager (iii) Private Business
Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and and Date Individuals who attended J18 (i) Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of Department of Communications, Climate 11/07/2017 the General Scheme of the Action and Environment Broadcasting (Amendment Ms. Patricia Cronin - Assistant Bill) 2017 and Secretary Retransmission Fees Mr. Dualta Ó Broin - Assistant Principal (ii) Private Business Ms. Mary Mooney - Assistant Principal Broadcasting Authority of Ireland Mr. Michael O’Keeffe – Chairperson Mr. Celene Craig - Deputy Chief Executive TG4 Mr. Pádhraic ÓCiardha - Leascheannasí Radió Teilifís Éireann Ms. Dee Forbes - Director General Ms. Aisling McCabe - Director of Platforms and Strategy Ms. Eleanor Bleahene - Solicitors Office Mr. Brian Dalton - Managing Director, Corporate Affairs Mediatique Mr. Matthew Horsman Mr. Paul Fleming
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Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and and Date Individuals who attended J19 (i) Private Business 19/07/2017
Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and and Date Individuals who attended J20 (i) Mid-year review of the Mr. Denis Naughten T.D. Minister for 27/09/2017 Revised Estimates for Public Communications, Climate Action and Services 2017 - Vote 29 – Environment Department of Mr. Seán Kyne T.D. Minister of State Communications, Climate for Community Development, Natural Action and Environment Resources and Digital Development
Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and and Date Individuals who attended
J21 (i) Pre-Legislative Scrutiny TV3 Ireland Mr. Pat Kiely - Managing Director 03/10/2017 of the General Scheme of Mr. Bill Malone - Director of the Broadcasting Programming (Amendment Bill) 2017 and Ms. Aine Ni Chaoindealbhain - Director Retransmission Fees of Operations Eir (ii) Private Business Mr. Richard Moat – CEO Mr. Glen Killane - Managing Director, Eir TV and Sports Sky Ireland Mr. JD Buckley - Managing Director Mr. David Wheeldon - Group Director Policy and Public Affairs Virgin Media Ireland Mr. Tony Hanway – CEO Ms. Kate O’Sullivan - VP Corporate Affairs Mr. Peter McCarthy - VP of Legal Vodafone Ireland Mr. Liam O Brien - Director of Strategy and External Affairs Mr. Andrew Walsh - Senior Consumer Content Manager CIL Management Ms. Tabitha Elwes Ms. Jon Zeff
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Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and Individuals and Date who attended
J22 (i) Mid-year review of Mr. Denis Naughten T.D. Minister for Communications, Climate Action and 05/10/2017 the Revised Estimates Environment for Public Services 2017
- Vote 29 – Department Mr. Sean Kyne T.D. Minister of State for of Communications, Community Development, Natural Resources and Digital Development Climate Action and Environment - Resumed
Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and Individuals and Date who attended J23 (i) Private Business Department of Communications, Climate 17/10/2017 Action and Environment (ii)EU Scrutiny Mr. Matt Collins - Assistant Secretary, Natural Resources & Waste Policy Division Schedule B: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Dr. Eimear Cotter - Director of the Office Legislative Proposals: of Environmental Sustainability Dr. Tom Ryan - Programme Manager, COM (2016) 175 Office of Environmental Sustainability COM (2016) 285 Repak ELT COM (2016) 287 Mr. Tony Keohane – Chairman Mr. Séamus Clancy – Chief Executive COM (2016) 789 Officer COM (2017) 54 Protecting Uplands & Rural Environments (PURE) COM (2017) 83 Mr. Ian Davis - Project Manager COM (2017) 132 Producer Register Limited (PRL) COM (2017) 366 Mr. Dominic Henry – Chairman COM (2017) 427 Independent Tyre Wholesalers and Retailers Association (ITWRA) COM (2017) 428 Mr. Eamon Daly – President Mr. Frank McDonagh Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) (iii) Scrutiny of Statutory Mr. Niall Murray - Chief Executive Instrument (SI) No. 400 Mr. Paddy Murphy – President of 2017 Waste Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) Ms. Verona Murphy - President Management (Tyres and Irish Farmers Association (IFA) Waste Tyres) Mr. Thomas Cooney - Chairman Regulations The Association for Retail Tyre Standards (ATRS) Mr. Thom Fox – Chairman
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Meeting No. Topic Organisations, Groups and and Date Individuals who attended
J24 (i) Private Business 24/10/2017
J25 (i) Private Business 07/11/2017
J26 (i) Private Business 21/11/2017
J27 (i) Private Business Department of Communications, Climate 28/11/2017 Action and Environment (ii) An Post and the Post Ms. Patricia Cronin - Assistant Office Network: discussion Secretary (resumed) Ms. Barbara Leeson - Principal (iii) Private Business
(iv) a) Engagement with An Post Chairman Designate of Bord Mr. David Mc Redmond - CEO na Móna, Mr. Geoffrey Meagher Former Chairman of the Post Office Network Business Development Group Mr. Bobby Kerr
Age Action Mr. Justin Moran – Head of Advocacy and Communications Ms. Phil Cooley - Representative
Irish Postmasters Union Mr. Ned O Hara, General Secretary Mr. Ciaran McEntee - Vice President Mr. Sean Martin - Honorary Treasurer
Bord na Móna Mr. Geoffrey Meagher – Chairman designate J28 (i) Private Business 12/12/2017
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APPENDIX 4: MINUTES OF MEETINGS OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J08
Tuesday 17 January 2017 at 5.00 pm
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Príobháideach / Private Session
The committee met at 17.00.
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair.
1. Members Present
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
Hildegarde Naughton
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
Michael Lowry
Bríd Smith
Senators
Michael McDowell
Joe O’Reilly
Tim Lombard,
Apologies
Deputy James Lawless
Senator Terry Leyden
Also in attendance: Deputy Tony McLaughlin and Senator Kevin Humphreys.
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
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Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session 5.40 pm
6.1 Policy issues arising from Communications Regulation (Postal Services) (Amendment) Bill 2016 and
6.2 Report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group (and the Implementation Group)
Background
The Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment is responsible for developing and maintaining an effective policy for the Irish postal sector. The Department also has corporate governance functions in respect of An Post. However it is the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) is responsible for regulating the postal sector in Ireland. The Communications Regulation (Postal Services) (Amendment) Bill 2016 was published by the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment on 22 December 2016. The main purpose of the Bill is to repeal the price cap mechanism currently in place for universal postal services, as outlined in section 30 of the Communications Regulation (Postal Services) Act 2011. This will give the universal service provider, An Post, increased pricing freedom. In this meeting the Committee discussed policy issues arising from Communications Regulation (Postal Services) (Amendment) Bill 2016
In January 2015 the former Minister for Communications, Alex White TD established the Post Office Network Business Development Group to explore potential commercial opportunities available to the post office network. In the Programme for Government (2016) the Government included a number of commitments regarding post offices. These include acting on the recommendations in the report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group. In total the Post Office Network Business Development Group identified a total of 23 recommendations, covering a number of areas including network renewal, financial services, government services, white labelling, and social capital and enterprise. In this meeting the Committee discussed the Report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group (and the Implementation Group).
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The chairman welcomed the following witnesses.
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment [Corporate Governance, Postal] o Ms. Patricia Cronin - Assistant Secretary General o Ms. Barbara Leeson - Principal Officer Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs [Post Office Network and Broadband Implementation Unit] o Mr. William Parnell - Assistant Secretary General o Mr. StJohn O’Connor - Principal Officer ComReg (Commission for Communications Regulation) o Mr. Kevin O’Brien - Commissioner o Mr. George Merrigan - Director of Market Framework Post Office Network Business Development Group o Mr. Bobby Kerr - Chairman of the Post Office Network Business Development Group An Post o Mr. David McRedmond - Chief Executive Officer Age Action Ireland Ltd. o Mr. Justin Moran - Head of Advocacy Communications Workers Union o Mr. Steve Fitzpatrick - General Secretary o Mr. Ian McArdle - Head of Regulation Irish Postmasters Union o Mr. Ned O’Hara - General Secretary o Mr. Paddy McCann - President TICo Mail Works Ltd. o Mr. Alex Pigot - Chairman and Managing Director o Mr. Michael O’Dwyer - Advisor to Managing Director
The main witnesses addressed the committee, followed by a questions and answers session.
The chairman thanked the witnesses.
It was agreed that the committee publish the submissions received in relation to this meeting.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
7. Next meeting
The committee adjourned until Tuesday 31 January 2017 at 5.00 pm.
______
Hildegarde Naughton
Chairman
17 January 2017
Page 50 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J09
Tuesday 31 January 2017 at 5.00 pm
Page 51 Annual Report 2017
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Príobháideach / Private Session
The committee met at 17.00.
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair.
1. Members Present
Deputies
Hildegarde Naughton
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
Bríd Smith
Senators
Michael McDowell
Joe O’Reilly
Tim Lombard,
Apologies
Timmy Dooley
James Lawless
Also in attendance: Deputies Tony McLaughlin, Eamon Scanlon and Martin Kenny
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
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Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session 7.20 pm
9. Policy issues arising from the Prohibition of the Exploration and Extraction of Onshore Petroleum Bill 2016 and EPA led Joint Research Programme on the Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing on the Environment and Human Health.
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses.
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Mr. Matthew Collins, Assistant Secretary, Natural Resources Area
Ms. Orla Ryan, Principal Officer, Petroleum Exploration Division
Geological Survey of Ireland
Ms. Monica Lee, Principal Geologist
Environmental Protection Agency
Dr. Matt Crowe, Director of the Office of Evidence and Assessment
Dr. Alice Wemare, Research Manager
CDM Smith
Mr. Alan Hooper, Former Managing Director
The main witnesses addressed the committee, followed by a questions and answers session.
The chairman thanked the witnesses.
It was agreed that the committee publish the submissions received in relation to this meeting.
10. Next meeting
The committee adjourned until Tuesday 14 February 2017 at 5.00 pm.
______Hildegarde Naughton Chairman 14 February, 2017
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J10
Tuesday 7 February 2017 at 12.00 pm
Page 54 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Príobháideach / Private Session
The committee met at 12.00.
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair.
Members Present
Deputies
Hildegarde Naughton
James Lawless
Michael Lowry
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
Bríd Smith
Senators
Terry Leydon
Joe O’Reilly
Tim Lombard,
Apologies
Michael McDowell
Also in attendance: Senator Aiden Davitt
ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
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Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session 12.33 pm
2. The Committee heard evidence in relation to the full media merger examination of the proposed acquisition of CMNL Limited, formerly Celtic Media Newspapers Limited, by INM plc (lndependent News & Media Holdings Limited), by the BAI (Broadcasting Authority of Ireland), under the terms of the Competition Act 2002 (as amended).
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses.
Academics / Experts o Prof. Colm Kenny, Emeritus Professor, former chair of the Masters in Journalism programme at Dublin City University o Dr. Michael Foley, Emeritus Research Fellow, Dublin Institute of Technology o Dr. Roderick Flynn, School of Communications, Dublin City University The Celtic Media Group o Frank Mulrennan, Chief Executive Officer, Celtic Media Group o Tadhg Carey, editor of Westmeath Independent and Offaly Independent Independent News and Media o Robert Pitt, CEO Independent News & Media PLC o Gerry Lennon, Managing Director, INM Regionals The National Union of Journalists o Séamus Dooley, Irish Secretary o Bernie Ní Fhlatharta, Leas Cathaoirleach, Irish Executive Council. o Ian McGuinness, Irish Organiser.
The main witnesses addressed the committee, followed by a questions and answers session.
The chairman thanked the witnesses.
It was agreed that the committee publish the submissions received in relation to this meeting.
The public session concluded at 2.51. p.m. The committee was suspended for 5 minutes.
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Príobháideach / Private Session
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. Next meeting
The committee adjourned until Tuesday 14 February 2017 at 5.00 pm.
______
Hildegarde Naughton
Chairman
07 February 2017
Page 57 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J11
Tuesday 14 February 2017 at 5.00 pm
Page 58 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
1. Members Present
Deputies
Hildegarde Naughton
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
Bríd Smith
James Lawless
Timmy Dooley
Senators
Joe O’Reilly
Terry Leydon
Apologies
Timmy Dooley
Michael McDowell
Also in attendance: Deputy Peter Burke and Senator Maria Byrne
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
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Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session 6.05pm
9. Scrutiny of EU legislative proposals
COM (2016) 862: Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on risk preparedness in the electricity sector and repealing Directive 2005/89/EC.
It was agreed that this proposal warrants further scrutiny. It is further agreed that the Committee seek the views of witnesses from the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment at the meeting today.
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses from the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment:
1. Mr Kevin Brady, Principal, Strategic Energy Policy Division
2. Ms. Una Nic Giolla Choille, Principal, Electricity & Gas Regulation Division
3. Ms. Rebecca Minch, Principal, Energy Efficiency & Affordability Division
4. Mr. Eamonn Confrey, Principal, Decarbonisation Policy & Coordination Division
5. Mr. Michael Goodwin, Principal Energy Security & Infrastructure Division
6. Dr. John O’Neill, Principal, Climate Policy Division
The officials advised on the "Clean Energy for all Europeans" package.
The following COMs were considered:
COM (2016) 759 Energy Union
COM (2016) 761 and Annex amending Directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency (2030 targets)
COM (2016) 767 Energy from renewable sources
COM (2016) 861 The internal market for electricity
COM (2016) 862 Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on risk-preparedness in the electricity sector and repealing Directive 2005/89/EC.
COM (2016) 864 The internal market for electricity
COM (2016) 863 EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
10. The officials also discussed the effect of the proposed withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union on the Irish energy market.
The main witnesses addressed the committee, followed by a questions and answers session.
The chairman thanked the witnesses.
It was agreed that the committee publish the submission received in relation to this meeting.
11. Next meeting
The committee adjourned until Tuesday 28 February 2017 at 5.00 pm.
______
Hildegarde Naughton
Chairman
28th February 2017
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J12
Tuesday 28 February 2017 at 5.00 pm
Page 62 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session 5.09pm
1. Members Present
Deputies
Hildegarde Naughton
Michael Lowry
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
Bríd Smith
James Lawless
Timmy Dooley
Senators
Tim Lombard
Michael McDowell
Substitutes
Ned O’ Sullivan for Terry Leyden
Maria Byrne for Tim Lombard
Martin Conway for Joe O’ Reilly
2. Election of the Vice Chair
Deputy James Lawless was elected vice chair
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3. Scrutiny of EU legislative proposals: Schedule A (high priority): The "Clean Energy for all Europeans" package.
On 31st January the Joint Committee decided that the proposals contained within the "Clean Energy for all Europeans" package required further scrutiny and it was agreed that the Committee would seek the views of the relevant stakeholders.
Representatives from the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), the Sustainable Energy of Authority of Ireland (SEAI), Eirgrid and the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) advised the committee on:
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses from:
Commission for Energy Regulation (CER)
Mr. Garrett Blaney Chairman
Ms. Aoife MacEvilly Commissioner
Sustainable Energy of Authority of Ireland (SEAI)
Mr. Jim Gannon, CEO,
Dr. Eimear Cotter, Low Carbon Technologies
Eirgrid
Mr. Fintan Slye, CEO
Mr. Rodney Doyle, Director, Market Operations and General Manager
Ms. Rosemary Steen, Director, External Affairs
Electricity Supply Board (ESB)
Mr. Peter O'Shea, Head of Strategy and Regulation
Mr. John Lawlor, Manager, Corporate Regulation and Strategy
The officials advised on the "Clean Energy for all Europeans" package.
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The following COMs were considered:
COM (2016) 759 Energy Union
COM (2016) 761 and Annex amending Directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency (2030 targets)
COM (2016) 767 Energy from renewable sources
COM (2016) 861 The internal market for electricity
COM (2016) 862 Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on risk-preparedness in the electricity sector and repealing Directive 2005/89/EC.
COM (2016) 864 The internal market for electricity
COM (2016) 863 EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators
4. The effect of the proposed withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union, on the energy market in Ireland.
The main witnesses addressed the committee, followed by a questions and answers session.
The chairman thanked the witnesses.
It was agreed that the committee publish the submission received in relation to this meeting.
Príobháideach /Private Session 6.50 p.m.
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
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9. Next meeting
The committee adjourned until Tuesday 28 March 2017 at 5.00 pm.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
28th March 2017
Page 65 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J13
Tuesday 28 March 2017 at 5.00 pm
Page 66 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Príobháideach / Private Session
The committee met at 5.00pm.
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair.
1. Members Present
Deputies
Hildegarde Naughton
James Lawless
Michael Lowry
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
Bríd Smith
Senators
Terry Leydon
Joe O’Reilly
Tim Lombard
Also in attendance: Minister Seán Kyne.
Apologies were received from Senator Michael McDowell
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
9. Next meeting
The Joint Committee was adjourned sine die.
23 May 2017
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J14
Tuesday, 9 May 2017 at 7p.m.
Page 69 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 7 p.m. on 9 May 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Hildegarde Naughton
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
James Lawless
Senators
Michael McDowell
Apologies
Deputy Timmy Dooley
Senator Terry Leydon
Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session
Review of Ireland’s Electricity Grid Development Strategy 2017 and the proposed Celtic Interconnector (Ireland-France) in the context of Brexit [Eirgrid]
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses from Eirgrid;
Mr Fintan Slye, Chief Executive
Mr John Fitzgerald, Executive Director Grid Development and Interconnection
Ms Rosemary Steen, Executive Director External Affairs
Page 70 Annual Report 2017
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Mr Slye delivered his opening statement and powerpoint presentation to the Committee giving an overview of Eirgrid’s recently published Grid Development Strategy 2017 and provided the Committee with details of the proposed subsea electricity cable linking the Irish grid to the French grid – that is the “Celtic Interconnector”.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and Witnesses.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for their presentation and submission.
It was agreed to publish the presentation and opening statement on the Committee’s website.
Private Session
Private Business
It was agreed to defer the Private Business to the next meeting of the Joint Committee.
Next Meeting
The Joint Committee adjourned until Tuesday 23 May 2017 at 5.00 p.m., when the committee will meet representative of ComReg (Commission for Communications Regulation), who will be accounting for the performance of ComReg’s functions, paying particular attention to their Electronic Communications Strategy 2017 – 2019 and also current developments, including roaming.
23 May 2017
Page 71 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J15
Tuesday, 23 May 2017 at 5 p.m.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on 23 May 2017
Deputy James Lawless in the chair
MEMBERS PRESENT
Deputies
James Lawless
Timmy Dooley
Eamon Ryan
Senators
Joe O’Reilly
Terry Leydon
Michael McDowell
In Attendance
Deputy Thomas Pringle
Apologies
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton
SEISIÚN PRÍOBHÁIDEACH / PRIVATE SESSION
ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
SEISIÚN POIBLÍ / PUBLIC SESSION
REVIEW OF THE PERFORMANCE OF COMREG'S (COMMISSION FOR COMMUNICATIONS REGULATION) STATUTORY FUNCTIONS AND STRATEGY STATEMENT 2017 – 2019
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses from Eirgrid;
Mr Gerry Fahy, Commissioner, Chairman;
Mr Jeremy Godfrey, Commissioner;
Mr Kevin O’Brien, Commissioner.
Page 73 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Mr Fahy delivered his opening statement and began the powerpoint presentation to the Committee giving a brief overview of ComReg including their key responsibilities.
Mr Godfrey went on to explain ComReg’s Strategy 2017-2021 and referred to trends developing over the next four to five year in particular the variability in consumer experience.
Mr O’Brien set out the key projects that ComReg are working on delivering over the next two-year period: promoting competition; Eir’s regulatory governance model; Investment including the 700mhz spectrum band; universal service and compliance.
Mr Fahy went on to discuss roaming and the obligation of all mobile operators under EU regulations.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and Witnesses.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for their presentation and submission.
It was agreed to publish the presentation and opening statement on the Committee’s website.
NEXT MEETING
The Joint Committee adjourned until Tuesday 20 June 2017 at 5.00 p.m.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
20 June 2017
Page 74 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J16
Tuesday, 20 June 2017 at 5 p.m.
Page 75 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on 20 June 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
James Lawless Timmy Dooley Eamon Ryan Brid Smith Brian Stanley
Senators Joe O’Reilly Terry Leydon
Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session
DECARBONISING TRANSPORT – THE KEY ROLE OF ALTERATIVE FUELS AND TECHNOLOGIES INCLUDING ELECTRIC VEHICLES
The chairman welcomed the witnesses from the following organisations;
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment - DCCAE;
Eamonn Confrey (Principal)
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport- DTTS;
Laura Behan (Principal, Head of the Climate Change Unit)
Representatives from:
SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland);
Jim Gannon (CEO)
CER (Commission for Energy Regulation)
Garrett Blaney (Commissioner)
John Melvin (Director of Energy Networks)
Page 76 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
ESB (Electricity Supply Board)
Paul Mulvaney, Executive Director for Innovation
Denis O’Leary, Head of Smart Energy Technologies.
Gas Networks Ireland (GNI)
Denis O’Sullivan (Head of Commercial)
Daniel FitzPatrick (Commercialisation Manager)
SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry),
Alan Nolan - Director General SIMI
Brian Cooke – Deputy Director General SIMI
Tom Cullen - Director SIMI
IRHA (Irish Road Haulage Association)
Jerry Kiersey, Deputy Vice President.
IEVOA (EV Owners Ireland)
Frank Barr (Chairman)
Dave McCabe (Secretary)
Joe McCarthy
Ms Laura Behan (Principal, Head of Climate Change Unit, DTTS) and Mr Eamonn Confrey (Principal Officer, DCCAE) delivered their joint opening statement which provided a brief outline of some of the main developments underway on the pathway to decarbonising transport and the role of alternative fuels.
Ms Behan (DTTS) gave an overview of the following:
The work of the Task Force on Low Emission Vehicles, which they both co-chair.
Transport Demand Growth
National Mitigation Plan
Transport and Fuel
National Policy Framework on Alternative Transport Fuels Infrastructure
Page 77 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
She informed the Committee that the DTTS had recently published the National Policy Framework on Alternative Fuels Infrastructure for Transport and indicated that the National Mitigation Plan, the whole of Government decarbonisation roadmap would be published shortly by the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment.
Mr Confrey (DCCAE) gave an overview of the following: Low Emission Vehicles (LEV )Task Force Electric Vehicles (EV) Targets The EV Grant Scheme Renewable Energy Directive: RES-T target Biofuels Clean Energy Package
SEAI Mr Jim Gannon, CEO of SEAI delivered his opening statement making reference to road transport emissions and focusing on reducing same by incentivising purchase of electric vehicles.
CER Mr Garrett Blaney, Commissioner and Mr John Melvin, Director of Energy Networks gave a brief overview of the work of CER in relation to Electric Vehicles.
ESB Mr Denis O’Leary gave an overview of the role of the ESB in relation to the role out and support of Electric Vehicles.
GNI Mr Denis O’Sullivan, Head of Commercial gave a brief overview of the role of GNI in decarbonising Ireland’s transport sector.
SIMI Mr Alan Nolan, Director General gave a brief overview their and the motor industry it represents strongly support the development of considered and balanced environmental strategies that can help deliver lower CO2, better air quality and more sustainable transport.
Page 78 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
IRHA Mr Jerry Kiersey, Deputy Vice President gave a brief overview of issues facing the IRHA in meeting decarbonisation limits and the need for proper driver training in the use of HGV Trucks indicating that there is a 15% to 20% fuel gain available if the technology is used correctly.
IEVOA Mr Frank Barr, Chairman and Mr Dave McCabe, Secretary gave a brief overview of the IEVOA and the challenges facing Ireland in meeting the targets set by the Department on the roll out of electric vehicles.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and Witnesses.
The meeting was suspended at 19:10 for Dáil votes and resumed at 19:40 to conclude the question and answers session.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for their presentation and submission. It was agreed to publish the presentations and opening statements on the Committee’s website.
The meeting suspended at 19:49 to allow witnesses from CER to take their seats for Session B.
Session B – Oversight of Commission for Energy Regulation (CER)
The joint committee has a statutory role in the oversight of a number of regulatory bodies and the committee intends to meet each regulator under its aegis on an annual basis. The committee is also developing a model for engagement with regulators and this will have ex post, current year and ex ante elements
The Chairman welcomed the following witnesses from CER: Mr Paul McGowan, Chairman of CER Mr Garret Blaney, Commissioner Ms Laura Brien, Director of Energy Markets and Smart Metering
Page 79 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Mr Paul McGowan, Chairperson of CER delivered his opening statement on the role of CER in the context of the commission's accountability to the joint committee. He gave a brief recap of CER - who they are and what they do, as well as what was achieved over the years, setting out publications, reports that are produced which could assist the committee in its oversight role.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and Witnesses. The Chairman thanked the witnesses for their presentation and submission. It was agreed to publish the presentation and opening statement on the Committee’s website. The Committee suspended at 20:34 before resuming in Private Session.
Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session Private Business
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Next Meeting The Joint Committee adjourned until Tuesday 4 July 2017 at 5.00 p.m.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
4 July, 2017
Page 80 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J17
Tuesday, 04 July 2017 at 5 p.m.
Page 81 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 4 July 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
James Lawless
Eamon Ryan
Brid Smith
Senators
Terry Leyden
Tim Lombard
Joe O’Reilly
In Attendance
Senator Paul Daly
Apologies
Senator Michael McDowell
Page 82 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session
Session A: ENGAGEMENT WITH MR PAUL HOLDEN, CHAIRMAN DESIGNATE OF THE DIGITAL HUB DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (DHDA)
The chairman welcomed Mr Paul Holden from the DHDA.
Mr Holden informed the Committee that he felt honoured to be selected by the Minister as chairman designate of the board of the DHDA, and delivered his opening statement providing a brief outline of the work of the DHDA and how he expects it to develop over the coming years focusing on 3 main points:-
Continued growth of the cluster currently made up of 95 companies, with 750 employees in total.
Urban regeneration including the redevelopment of a large site on the south side of Thomas Street, including a vat house which was formerly part of the Guinness facility.
Integration into the local community
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and Mr Holden.
Mr Holden invited the committee to visit the DHDA and the Chairman expressed an interest on behalf of the committee.
The Chairman thanked Mr Holden for attending and his presentation.
It was agreed to publish the opening statement on the Committee’s website.
It was also agreed to forward the transcript of today’s engagement with the chairman designate to the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment for his information and consideration.
The meeting suspended at 17:38 to allow witnesses from BAI to take their seats for Session B.
Page 83 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Session B: Oversight of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI)
The Chairman welcomed the following witnesses from BAI:
Professor Pauric Travers, BAI chairman,
Mr. Michael O'Keeffe, BAI chief executive, and
Ms Stephanie Comey, BAI senior manager
Mr Pauric Travers, Chairman of the BAI delivered his opening statement and gave a brief retrospective on the recent work of the authority.
Mr. O'Keeffe, CEO, outlined some of the strategic priorities for the period ahead and the BAI Strategic Plan 2017-2019 and discussed their five strategic themes:
promoting diversity and plurality;
achieving excellence in accountability;
communicating and influencing;
empowering audiences; and
enhancing innovation and sectoral sustainability.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and Witnesses.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for their presentation and submission.
It was agreed to publish the presentation and opening statement on the Committee’s website.
The Committee suspended at 18:25 before resuming in Private Session.
Page 84 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
1. ITEM WAS DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
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NEXT MEETING
The Joint Committee adjourned until Tuesday 11 July 2017 at 5.00 p.m.
______
Hildegarde Naughton
Chairman
19 July 2017
Page 85 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J18
Tuesday, 11 July 2017 at 5 p.m.
Page 86 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 4 July 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
James Lawless
Eamon Ryan
Brid Smith
Brian Stanley
Timmy Dooley
Senators
Joe O’Reilly
Apologies
Senator Terry Leyden
Senator Michael McDowell
Page 87 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session
Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Broadcasting (Amendment Bill) 2017 and Retransmission Fees
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses:
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE);
Ms Patricia Cronin, Assistant Secretary
Ms Mary Mooney, Assistant Principal
Mr Dualta Ó Broin, Assistant Principal
Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI);
Mr Michael O’Keeffe, Chairperson
Ms Celene Craig (Deputy Chief Executive)
TG4;
Mr Pádhraic Ó Ciardha, Leascheannasí TG4
Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ)
Ms Dee Forbes, Director General
Mr Brian Dalton, Managing Director Corporate Affairs RTÉ
Ms Aisling McCabe, Director of Platforms and Strategy RTÉ
Ms Eleanor Bleahene, RTÉ Solicitors Office
Ms Matthew Horsman - Mediatique
Mr Paul Fleming – Medaitique
Ms Patricia Cronin, Assistant Secretary DCCAE delivered her opening statement in relation to the legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009 to deal with some of the shorter term funding issues and reconsideration of the issue of retransmission fees which are not currently included in the legislative amendments.
Mr. O'Keeffe, Chief Executive, BAI, delivered his opening statement and spoke about The Working Capital arrangements for the BAI. The potential extension of the levy order to Section 71 contractors. A proposal to allow the BAI to be part-funded from the Licence Fee.
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The BAI reserved its position in relation to Head 7 of the Bill in relation to the issue of copyright as it is not currently within the remit of the BAI.
Mr Pádhraic Ó Ciardha, Leascheannasí TG4 delivered his opening statement and commended the Committee on hosting the Forum on Future Funding of Public Service Broadcasting in Dublin Castle on 7 July 2017.
Ms Dee Forbes, Director General, RTE delivered her opening statement and the challenges facing RTÉ and the broadcasting sector. She also commended the Committee on hosting the Forum.
Ms Forbes introduced the witnesses from Mediatique, Advisors engaged by RTE. They delivered their submission on the Platform-supplier relationships – the case for retransmission fees.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and the witnesses.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for attending. It was agreed to publish the opening statements and other documentation on the Committee’s website.
Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
It was agreed to defer the Private Session to the next committee meeting.
Next Meeting
The Joint Committee adjourned until Wednesday 19 July 2017 at 2.00 p.m.
[Note: This was later changed to 7 p.m.]
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman 19 July 2017
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An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J19
Wednesday, 19 July 2017 at 6 p.m.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 6 p.m. on Wednesday 19 July 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
James Lawless
Eamon Ryan
Brid Smith
Timmy Dooley
Senators
Joe O’Reilly
Terry Leyden
Apologies
Senator Michael McDowell
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Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
The Joint Committee adjourned until Tuesday 3 October, 2017 at 5 p.m.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
03 October 2017
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An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting J20
Mid-year Review 2017
Wednesday, 27 September 2017
Dáil Chamber at 9.30 a.m.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Public Session
The joint committee met in public session at 9:39 am in Dáil Chamber,
a quorum being present.
Deputy James Lawless in the chair.
Members Present
Deputies: Timmy Dooley, Eamon Ryan, Bríd Smith, Brian Stanley;
Senators: Michael McDowell, Terry Leyden, Tim Lombard
Apologies
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton
Senator Joe O'Reilly
In attendance
Mr Denis Naughten, T.D., Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment.
Mr. Sean Kyne, T.D., Minister of State for Community Development, Natural Resources and Digital Development.
The ministers were accompanied by the following officials: Finola Rossi - Finance Officer, Rebecca Minch – Principal; Eoin Deegan – Assistant Principal; Dualta Ó Broin – Assistant Principal; Jim Whelan – Assistant Principal.
Business of the Committee
Proposed that:
The Vote will be examined programme by programme: A - F.
Members will be called upon to ask questions on the subheads under the relevant programme.
The committee is particularly interested in programmes that contain information that will be useful in illustrating the link between expenditure and performance, that is, key high level metrics.
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Following the examination of these programmes, Committee Members may wish to address questions to the Minister on administrative subheads, Programme G Appropriations-in-Aid, and the Environment Fund.
Finally, members may ask questions relating to the Vote as a whole.
Estimates for Public Services 2017: Vote 29 - Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The Minister made his opening statement and gave a brief on the following Programmes
Programme A – Communications
Programme B - Broadcasting
The Minister engaged in a questions and answer session with members.
The following members asked questions:
Deputies James Lawless [Chairman], Timmy Dooley, Eamon Ryan, Brian Stanley, Bríd Smith.
Senators Terry Leyden, Michael McDowell.
At the conclusion of the session, the chairman thanked the ministers and officials for attending.
Adjournment
The joint committee adjourned at 11:30 a.m. until Thursday 5 October 2017 in the Dáil Chamber at 10 a.m. to conclude the review in relation to Programmes C- F, administrative subheads, Programme G Appropriations-in-Aid, and the Environment Fund.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
3 October 2017
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An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J21
Tuesday, 03 October 2017 at 5 p.m.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 3 October 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
James Lawless
Brian Stanley
Senators
Terry Leyden
Tim Lombard
Michael McDowell
Joe O’Reilly
John Dolan
Apologies
Deputy Eamon Ryan
Deputy Bríd Smith
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Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session
Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Broadcasting (Amendment Bill) 2017 and Retransmission Fees
Session A
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses:
Representatives from: TV3 Ireland
Mr Pat Kiely, Managing Director, TV3 Ireland
Mr Bill Malone, Director of Programming, TV3 Ireland
Ms Aine Ni Chaoindealbhain, Director of Operations, TV3 Ireland
Mr. Peter McCarthy, VP of Legal, at Virgin Media
Mr Kiely delivered his opening statement in relation to the legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009 to deal with some of the shorter term funding issues and reconsideration of the issue of retransmission fees which are not currently included in the legislative amendments.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and the witnesses.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for attending. It was agreed to publish the opening statements and other documentation on the Committee’s website.
The meeting suspended for 5 minutes to allow Witnesses for Session B to take their seats and we will resume in public session.
Session B
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses on behalf of the Platform Providers from the following organisations:
Representatives from Sky Ireland
Mr JD Buckley, Managing Director of Sky Ireland
Mr David Wheeldon, Group Director Policy and Public Affairs, Sky Ireland
Virgin Media Ireland
Mr Tony Hanway, Chief Executive Officer, Virgin Media Ireland
Ms Kate O’Sullivan, VP Corporate Affairs, Virgin Media Ireland
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Eir
Mr Richard Moat, Chief Executive Officer, Eir
Mr Glen Killane, Managing Director Eir TV and Sports, Eir
Vodafone Ireland
Mr Liam O Brien, Director of Strategy and External Affairs Vodafone Ireland
Mr Andrew Walsh, Senior Consumer Content Manager Vodafone Ireland
CIL Management Consultants (on behalf of platform operators)
Ms Tabitha Elwes, Head of Media, CIL
Mr Jon Zeff, Director of Media, CIL
The chairman also welcomed Senator John Dolan.
Sky Ireland
Mr Buckley delivered his opening statement in relation to the legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009 to deal with some of the shorter term funding issues and reconsideration of the issue of retransmission fees which are not currently included in the legislative amendments. Mr Buckley informed the Committee that Sky had a good working relationship with RTE and they have commercial free contracts with RTE.
Mr Wheeldon informed that the Committee that it was not Sky’s policy to pay retransmission fees in any jurisdiction as this would set a precedent. He also informed the Committee that Sky was an ‘Open Platform Provider’ and as such under EU law they can’t prevent anyone from using their platform.
CIL Management Consultants (on behalf of platform operators)
Ms Tabitha Elwes, Head of Media, CIL and Mr Jon Zeff, Director of Media, CIL delivered their presentation in relation to the legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009 and in particular to the proposal of Retransmission Fees.
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Virgin Media Ireland
Mr Hanway, CEO, delivered his opening statement echoing some of the concerns voiced by Mr Kiely of TV3 Ireland in relation to the legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009.
Eir
Mr Moat, CEO, delivered his opening statement in relation to the legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009.
Vodafone Ireland
Mr Liam O Brien, Director of Strategy and External Affairs delivered his opening statement in relation to the legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and the witnesses.
Senator Dolan raised his concerns about the lack of programming for and about people with disabilities.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for attending. It was agreed to publish the opening statements and other documentation on the Committee’s website.
The meeting suspended for 5 minutes and resumed in private session.
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Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
Next Meeting
The Joint Committee adjourned until Thursday 5 October 2017 at 10.00 a.m. in the Dáil Chamber. [Note: This was later changed to the Seanad Chamber due to Dáil business]
17 October, 2017
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting J22
Mid-year Review 2017
Thursday 5 October 2017
Seanad Chamber at 10 a.m.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Public Session The joint committee met in public session at 10:00 am in the Seanad Chamber, a quorum being present.
1. Members Present Deputies: Timmy Dooley, James Lawless, Eamon Ryan, Bríd Smith, Brian Stanley; Senators: Terry Leyden, Tim Lombard, Joe O’Reilly
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair.
2. In attendance Mr Denis Naughten, T.D., Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment. Mr. Seán Kyne, T.D., Minister of State for Community Development, Natural Resources and Digital Development.
The ministers were accompanied by the following officials from the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment: Finola Rossi - Finance Officer, Rebecca Minch – Principal; Eoin Deegan – Assistant Principal; Dualta Ó Broin – Assistant Principal; Jim Whelan – Assistant Principal and Mr. Maurice Healy.
3. Expression of Sympathy The Chairman proposed that Members take a minute's silence to mark the death of the former Taoiseach, Liam Cosgrave Members rose.
4. Business of the Committee It was agreed that:
The committee will consider the Vote programme by programme;
Members will be called upon to ask questions on the subheads under the relevant programme;
Members should limit their questions to five minutes;
The committee is particularly interested in programmes that contain information that will be useful in illustrating the link between expenditure and performance, that is, key high level metrics;
At the conclusion of the meeting, members may ask questions relating to the Vote as a whole.
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5. Estimates for Public Services 2017: Vote 29 - Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Minister Naughten made a brief statement on the following Programmes Programme C – Energy Programme F – Environment and Waste Management Programme G – Appropriations in Aid Followed by Administration subheads The Environment Fund
The Minister of State, Seán Kyne made a brief opening statement and on the following Programmes Programme D – Natural Resources Programme E – Inland Fisheries The Ministers engaged in a questions and answer session with members.
The following members asked questions: Deputies: Hildegarde Naughton [Chairman], Timmy Dooley, James Lawless, Eamon Ryan, Bríd Smith, Brian Stanley; Senators: Terry Leyden, and Joe O’Reilly At the conclusion of the session, the chairman thanked the ministers and officials for attending.
6. Adjournment The joint committee adjourned at 11:58 a.m. until Tuesday 17 October, 2017 at 5 p.m.
17 October 2017
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An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J23
Tuesday, 17 October 2017 at 5 p.m.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 17 October 2017
Deputy James Lawless in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Eamon Ryan
Bríd Smith
Brian Stanley
Senators
Michael McDowell
Joe O’Reilly
Apologies
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
Hildegarde Naughton
Senators
Terry Leyden
Tim Lombard
In Attendance
Deputies
Noel Grealish
Kevin O’Keeffe
Robert Troy
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
The meeting suspended for 5 minutes to allow Witnesses to take their seats and resumed in public session.
2. Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session
2.1 EU Scrutiny – Schedule B COMs
COM (2017)54 [aviation activities & global market-based measure from 2021]
It was agreed that further scrutiny was required and the Policy Advisor would prepare a briefing note.
COM (2017)83 [adoption of 2016-2019 High Flux Reactor research programme]
It was agreed that no further scrutiny was required.
COM (2017)132 [Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants]
It was agreed that no further scrutiny was required.
COM (2016)175 [EAEC and India Nuclear Energy Agreement]
It was agreed that no further scrutiny was required.
It was noted that a subsidiarity check was performed by the Committee set up under SO112. It was further noted that the deadline for making a reasoned opinion had passed on subsidiarity however, it is still open to the Joint Committee to submit a political opinion.
COM(2016)285 [Border parcel delivery services]
It was agreed that further scrutiny was required and the Policy Advisor would prepare a briefing note.
It was noted that a subsidiarity check was performed by the Committee set up under SO112. It was further noted that the deadline for making a reasoned opinion had passed on subsidiarity however, it is still open to the Joint Committee to submit a political opinion.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
COM(2016)287 [audio-visual media services in view of changing market realities]
It was agreed that further scrutiny was required and the committee would examine this COM at a future meeting.
It was noted that a subsidiarity check was performed by the Committee set up under SO112. It was further noted that the deadline for making a reasoned opinion had passed on subsidiarity however, it is still open to the Joint Committee to submit a political opinion.
COM(2017)366 [Aarhus Convention-compliance case ACCC/C/2008/32]
It was agreed that no further scrutiny was required.
COM(2017)427 [EU & Switzerland Green House Gas Emissions]
It was agreed that no further scrutiny was required.
COM(2017)428 [EU & Switzerland Green House Gas Emissions Trading System]
It was agreed that no further scrutiny was required.
COM(2016)789 [procedural rules in the field of environmental reporting]
It was agreed that no further scrutiny was required.
2.2 Schedule Scrutiny of Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 400 of 2017 Waste Management (Tyres and Waste Tyres) Regulations (engagement with stakeholders)
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses:
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE)
Mr. Matt Collins, Assistant Secretary, Natural Resources & Waste Policy Division
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Dr Eimear Cotter, Director of the Office of Environmental Sustainability;
Dr Tom Ryan, Programme Manager, Office of Environmental Sustainability
Repak ELT
Mr Tony Keohane – Chairman
Page 108 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment Mr Séamus Clancy – Chief Executive Officer
Protecting Uplands & Rural Environments (PURE)
Mr Ian Davis, Project Manager
Producer Register Limited (PRL)
Mr Dominic Henry – Chairman
Independent Tyre Wholesalers and Retailers Association (ITWRA)
Mr Eamon Daly – President
Mr Frank McDonagh
Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA)
Mr Niall Murray, Chief Executive Officer
Mr Paddy Murphy – President
Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA)
Ms Verona Murphy President
Irish Farmers Association (IFA)
Mr Thomas Cooney, Chairman, IFA Environment and Rural Affairs
The Association for Retail Tyre Standards (ATRS)
Mr Thom Fox, Chairman.
The Chairman noted that the County and City Managers Association sent a letter of regret in relation to today’s meeting and they had forwarded their views to the Joint Committee in advance.
Mr Matt Collins Assistant Secretary delivered the opening statement on behalf of the DCCAE.
Dr Eimear Cotter delivered the opening statement on behalf of the EPA.
Mr Tony Keohane delivered the opening statement on behalf of Repak ELT.
Mr Ian Davis delivered the opening statement on behalf of PURE.
Mr Dominic Henry delivered the opening statement on behalf of the PRL.
Mr Niall Murray delivered the joint opening statement on behalf of the ITIA and the ITWRA.
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Ms Verona Murphy delivered the opening statement on behalf of the IRHA.
Mr Thom Fox delivered the opening statement on behalf of the ATRS.
Mr Thomas Cooney delivered the opening statement on behalf of the IFA.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members, Deputy Robert Troy and Deputy O’Keeffe and the witnesses.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for attending. It was agreed to publish the opening statements and other documentation on the Committee’s website. It was decided that Members would discuss this matter further in Private session.
The meeting suspended for 5 minutes and resumed in private session.
3. Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
3.1 ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3.2 ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3.3 ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3.4 ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3.5 Adjournment
It was noted that the next regular meeting of the Joint Committee following the Dáil recess is 14 November, 2017.
It was agreed that the Joint Committee adjourn until Tuesday 24 October 2017 in CR2, LH2000 to hold a special meeting to discuss SI No. 400 of 2017 Waste Management (Tyres and Waste Tyres) Regulations further and such other business as may arise.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
07 November, 2017
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J24
Tuesday, 24 October 2017 at 12 Noon
Page 111 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 17 October 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
James Lawless
Michael Lowry
Eamon Ryan
Bríd Smith
Brian Stanley
Senators
Tim Lombard
Joe O’Reilly
Apologies
Senators
Michael McDowell
In Attendance
Mr Kevin O’Donoghue, Principal,
Waste Policy & Resource Efficiency Division
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment.
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Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
It was agreed that the Joint Committee adjourn until Tuesday 7 November 2017.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
7 November, 2017
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J25
Tuesday, 7 November 2017 at 8.15 p.m.
Page 114 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 7 November 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
Eamon Ryan
Brian Stanley
Senators
Terry Leyden
Michael McDowell
Apologies
Deputies
James Lawless
Bríd Smith
Senators
Joe O’Reilly
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Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
8. Adjournment
It was agreed that the Joint Committee adjourn until Tuesday 21 November 2017 at 10 a.m., the meeting will be in private session, and will consider the Draft Committee recommendations re the Future Funding of Public Service Broadcasting in Ireland and the Draft Committee recommendations re the Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Broadcasting (Amendment Bill) 2017 and Retransmission Fees
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
21 November, 2017
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An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J26
Tuesday, 21 November 2017 at 12 Noon
Page 117 Annual Report 2016
Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 12 Noon on Tuesday 21 November 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
James Lawless
Eamon Ryan
Bríd Smith
Brian Stanley
Senators
Tim Lombard
Joe O’Reilly
Apologies
Senators
Terry Leyden
Michael McDowell
Page 118 Annual Report 2017 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
Adjournment
It was agreed that the Joint Committee adjourn until Tuesday 28 November 2017 at 5 p.m.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
28 November, 2017
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An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No. J27
Tuesday, 28 November 2017 at 5p.m.
Page 120 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 10 a.m. on Tuesday 28 November 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
James Lawless
Eamon Ryan
Bríd Smith
Brian Stanley
Senators
Terry Leyden
Michael Lowry
Michael McDowell
Apologies
Senators
Tim Lombard
Joe O’Reilly
In attendance
Senator Mark Daly
Barry Cowen TD
Jackie Cahill TD
Michael Fitzmaurice TD
Fiona O’Loughlin TD
Page 121 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
Suspension of meeting
The meeting suspended until 5 p.m. in CR2 Leinster House.
The committee resumed in Public Session at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 28 November 2017
Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session A
An Post and an post networks (resumed from 17 January 2017)
The chairman welcomed the following witnesses
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE) Ms Patricia Cronin, Assistant Secretary Ms Barbara Leeson, Principal
An Post Mr David Mc Redmond, Chief Executive Officer
Former Chairman of the Post Office Network Business Development Group Mr Bobby Kerr
Age Action Mr Justin Moran, Head of Advocacy and Communications Ms Phil Cooley, Representative
Irish Postmasters Union Mr Ned O Hara, General Secretary Mr Ciaran McEntee, Vice President Mr Sean Martin, Honorary Treasurer
Page 122 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Apologies Apologies were received from the Communications Workers’ Union and Tico Mail Works. It was agreed to publish the letter from Mr Alex Pigot of Tico Mail Works on the committee’s website.
Ms Patricia Cronin, Assistant Secretary delivered the opening statement on behalf of the DCCAE. Mr David Mc Redmond delivered the opening statement on behalf of An Post. Mr Bobby Kerr delivered his opening statement. Mr Ned O’Hara delivered the opening statement on behalf of the Irish Postmasters Union. The Committee also heard from Mr Sean Martin. Mr Justin Moran delivered the opening statement on behalf of Age Action. The Committee also heard from Ms Phil Cooley.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members, Deputies Barry Cowen, Jackie Cahill, Michael Fitzmaurice and Fiona O’Loughlin and the witnesses.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for attending. It was agreed to publish the opening statements and other documentation from the witnesses on the Committee’s website. It was decided that Members would discuss this matter further in Private session.
The meeting suspended for 5 minutes and resumed in private session.
Seisiún príobháideach / Private Session
1. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 2. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 3. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 4. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 5. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 6. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION 7. ITEM DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE SESSION
Page 123 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
Seisiún Poiblí / Public Session B - 19.00 ENGAGEMENT WITH Chairman Designate Bord na Móna
The chairman welcomed Mr Geoffrey Meagher, Chairman Designate of Bord na Móna. Mr Meagher informed the Committee that he felt honoured to be selected by the Minister as chairman designate of the board of Bord na Móna. He delivered his opening statement providing a brief outline of the work of Bord na Móna and gave an outline of his previous experiences.
A questions and answers session followed with the Committee Members and Mr Holden.
The Chairman thanked Mr Holden for attending and his presentation.
It was agreed to publish the opening statement on the Committee’s website.
It was also agreed to forward the Official Report of today’s engagement with the chairman designate to the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment for his information and consideration.
Adjournment The Joint Committee adjourned until Tuesday 12 December 2017 at 5 p.m.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman 12 December, 2017
Page 124 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
An Comhchoiste um Chumarsáid,
Gníomhú ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaol
Joint Committee on Communications,
Climate Action and Environment
Minutes of Meeting No.J28
Tuesday 12 December 2017 at 5:00 pm
Page 125 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
The committee met at 5 p.m. on Tuesday 12 December 2017
Deputy Hildegarde Naughton in the chair
Members Present
Deputies
Timmy Dooley
Michael Lowry
Eamon Ryan
Bríd Smith
Brian Stanley
Senators
Terry Leyden
Tim Lombard
Michael McDowell
Joe O’Reilly
Apologies
Deputies
James Lawless
Page 126 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
1. ITEMS DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE
2. ITEMS DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE
3. ITEMS DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE
4. ITEMS DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE
5. ITEMS DISCUSSED IN PRIVATE
6. ADJOURMENT
The Committee adjourned at 5:51p.m. until Tuesday 16 January 2018 at 5:00 pm.
______
Hildegarde Naughton Chairman
16 January, 2018
Page 127 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
APPENDIX 5: MEETINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
The following are the details, in date order, of the scheduled meetings of the Select Committee which took place during the period under report.
MEETING NO. TOPIC ORGANISATIONS, GROUPS AND AND DATE INDIVIDUALS WHO ATTENDED
S06 Private Session Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment 07/02/17
S07 Public Session Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment 11/04/17 1. Consideration of the Estimate for Vote 29 - Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.
Deputy Denis Naughten (Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment), Deputy Seán Kyne (Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment)
S08 Public Session Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment 09/05/17
S09 Public Session Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment 16/05/17
S10 Public Session Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment 17/05/17
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APPENDIX 6: PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE [IMEACHTAÍ)
IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE UM CHUMARSÁID, GNÍOMHÚ AR SON NA HAERÁIDE AGUS COMHSHAOL
PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, CLIMATE ACTION AND ENVIRONMENT
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Select Committee on
Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources
An Roghchoiste um
Chumarsáid, Athrú Aeráide agus Acmhaínní Nádúrtha
Minutes of Meeting Number S06
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IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
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Dé Máirt, 7 Feabhra, 2017
Tuesday, 7th February, 2017
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1. Chruinnigh an Coiste ar 7.11 p.m. 1. The Committee met at 7.11 p.m.
1 2 2. COMHALTAÍ I LÁTHAIR . 2. MEMBERS PRESENT .
An Teachta Hildegarde Ní Neachtáin (i Deputy Hildegarde Naughton (in the gCeannas), An Teachta Seán Ó Cadhain Chair), Deputy Seán Kyne, (Minister of (Aire Stáit ag An Roinn Cumarsáide, State at the Department of Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide agus Communications, Climate Action and Comhshaoil), na Teachtaí - Séamas Environment), Deputies – James Lawless; Laighléis; Éamon Ó Riain; Brian de Eamon Ryan, Brian Stanley. Stainléigh.
3. AN BILLE AN BILLE UM RIALÁIL 3. COMMUNICATIONS REGULATIONS (POSTAL CUMARSÁIDE (SEIRBHÍSÍ POIST) LEAS), 2016 SERVICES) AMENDMENT BILL 2016
Chrom an Coiste ar an mBille a The Committee took the Bill into bhreithniú. consideration.
1 Ghlac an Teachta Seán Ó Cadhain (Aire Stáit ag an Roinn Cumarsáide; Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) ionad an Aire ag an Roinn Cumarsáide; Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil [B.O. 95(1)]. 2 Deputy Seán Kyne (Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment) substituted for the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment [S.O. 95(1)].
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(i) Alt nua. (Ailt nua.) (i) New section(s).
Tairgeadh leasú 1 An Teachta Éamon Ó Amendment 1 Deputy Eamon Ryan, Riain agus tarraingíodh siar an leasú, faoi proposed and, by leave, withdrawn. chead.
(ii) Aontaíodh alt 1. (ii) Section 1 agreed to.
(iii) alt 2. (iii) Section 2.
Tairgeadh leasú 4 An Teachta Éamon Ó Amendment 4 Deputy Eamon Ryan, Riain agus tarraingíodh siar an leasú, faoi proposed and, by leave, withdrawn. chead.
Aontaíodh alt 2. Section 2 agreed to.
4. AN CRUINNIÚ AR FIONRAÍ. 4. MEETING SUSPENDED.
Ordaíodh: An Cruinniú a chur ar fionraí Ordered: That the Meeting be now anois. suspended.
Cuireadh an Cruinniú ar fionraí dá réir sin The Meeting was accordingly suspended ar 7.35p.m. at 7.35 p.m.
______
Ar 7.50 p.m. athchromadh ar an The Meeting was resumed at 7.50 p.m. gCruinniú.
5. AN BILLE AN BILLE UM RIALÁIL 5. COMMUNICATIONS REGULATIONS CUMARSÁIDE (SEIRBHÍSÍ POIST) LEAS), (POSTAL SERVICES) AMENDMENT BILL, 2016 2016
D’athchrom an Coiste ar an mBille a The Committee resumed consideration of bhreithniú. the Bill.
(i) Aontaíodh alt 3. (i) Section 3 agreed to.
(ii) Aontaíodh an Teideal. (ii) Title agreed to.
6. CRÍOCHNÚ AN GHNÓ. 6. CONCLUSION OF BUSINESS.
Chríochnaigh an Coiste a bhreithniú ar an The Committee concluded its mBille ar 7.51 p.m. consideration of the Bill at 7.51 p.m.
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7. TEACHTAIREACHT CHUIG DÁIL 7. MESSAGE TO DÁIL ÉIREANN. ÉIREANN.
Cuireadh teachtaireacht chun na Dála á Message sent to the Dáil acquainting it chur in iúl di gur chríochnaigh an Coiste a that the Committee had completed its bhreithniú ar an mBille agus go raibh consideration of the Bill and had made leasuithe déanta aige air. amendments thereto.
6. ATHLÁ. 6. ADJOURNMENT.
Chuaigh an Coiste ar athló ar 7.51 p.m. The Committee adjourned at 7.51 p.m. sine die. sine die.
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Select Committee on
Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources
An Roghchoiste um
Chumarsáid, Athrú Aeráide agus Acmhaínní Nádúrtha
Minutes of Meeting Number S07
Page 134 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
______
Dé Máirt,11 Aibreán, 2017
Tuesday, 11th April, 2017 ______
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IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
______
Dé Máirt, 11 Aibreán, 2017
Tuesday, 11th April, 2017 ______
1. Chruinnigh an Coiste ar 4.10 p.m. 1. The Committee met at 4.10 p.m.
2. COMHALTAÍ I LÁTHAIR. 2. MEMBERS PRESENT.
Bhí na comhaltaí seo a leanas i láthair: The following Members were present:
An Teachta Hildegarde Ní Neachtáin (i Deputy Hildegarde Naughton (in the gCeannas), An Teachta Donnacha Ó Chair), Deputy Denis Naughten (Minister Neachtain (an tAire An tAire for Communications, Climate Action and Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son na the Environment), Deputy Seán Kyne hAeráide agus Comhshaoil), an Teachta (Minister of State at the Department of Seán M. Ó Cadhain (Aire Stáit ag an Communications, Climate Action and Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Environment), Deputies Timmy Dooley, na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil), na James Lawless, Michael Lowry and Brian Teachtaí Tadhg Ó Dubhlaoigh, Séamas Stanley. Laighléis, Micheál Ó Labhraí agus Brian de Stainléigh.
3. BREITHNIÚ AR MHEASTACHÁIN I GCOMHAIR 3. CONSIDERATION OF ESTIMATES FOR PUBLIC SEIRBHÍSÍ POIBLÍ. SERVICES.
Bhreithnigh an Coiste an Meastachán The Committee considered the following seo a leanas i gcomhair Seirbhísí Poiblí Estimate for Public Services for the year don bhliain dar críoch an 31 Nollaig, ending 31st December, 2017 – 2017 –
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Vóta 29 (Roinn Cumarsáide, Vote 29 (Department of Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide Communications, Climate Action agus Comhshaoil) (Meastachán and Environment) (Revised Athbhreithnithe). Estimate).
Críochnaíodh an breithniú ar an Consideration of the Estimate was Meastachán/Cuireadh an breithniú ar an concluded. Meastachán ar athló.
Cuireadh teachtaireacht chun na Dála de Message sent to the Dáil in accordance réir Bhuan-Ordú 90 á chur in iúl di gur with Standing Order 90 acquainting it chríochnaigh an Coiste a bhreithniú ar that the Committee had completed its an Meastachán. consideration of the Estimate.
4. ATHLÁ. 4. ADJOURNMENT.
Chuaigh an Coiste ar athló ar 5.45 p.m. The Committee adjourned at 5.45 p.m. sine die. sine die.
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Select Committee on
Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources
An Roghchoiste um
Chumarsáid, Athrú Aeráide agus Acmhaínní Nádúrtha
Minutes of Meeting Number S08
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IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
______
Dé Máirt,9 Bealtaine, 2017
Tuesday, 9th May, 2017 ______
1. Chruinnigh an Coiste ar 5.30 p.m. 1. The Committee met at 5.30 p.m.
3 4 2. COMHALTAÍ I LÁTHAIR . 2. MEMBERS PRESENT .
An Teachta Hildegarde Ní Neachtáin (i Deputy Hildegarde Naughton (in the gCeannas), An Teachta Seán Ó Cadhain Chair), Deputy Seán Kyne, (Minister of (Aire Stáit ag An Roinn Cumarsáide, State at the Department of Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide agus Communications, Climate Action and Comhshaoil), na Teachtaí - Séamas Environment), Deputies- James Laighléis; Éamon Ó Riain; Bríd Nic Lawless; Eamon Ryan; Bríd Smith; Brian Gabhann; Brian de Stainléigh. Stanley.
3. AN BILLE UM THOIRMEASC AR PHEITRILIAM I 3. PROHIBITION OF THE EXPLORATION AND DTÍR MÓR A THAISCÉALADH AGUS A EXTRACTION OF ONSHORE PETROLEUM BILL, ASTARRAINGT, 2016. 2016.
3 Ghlac an Teachta Seán Ó Cadhain (Aire Stáit ag an Roinn Cumarsáide; Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) ionad an Aire ag an Roinn Cumarsáide; Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil [B.O. 95(1)]. Bhí an Teachta Antoine Mac Lochlainn i láthair [B.O. 95(3)]. 4 Deputy Seán Kyne (Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment) substituted for the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment [S.O. 95(1)]. Deputy Tony McLoughlin attended [S.O. 95(3)].
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Chrom an Coiste ar an mBille a The Committee took the Bill into bhreithniú. consideration.
(i) Alt nua. (i) New section.
Tairgeadh leasú 1 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 1 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
(ii) Scriosadh alt 1. (ii) Section 1 deleted.
(iii) Alt nua. (iii) New section.
Tairgeadh leasú 3 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 3 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
(iv) Scriosadh alt 2. (iv) Section 2 deleted.
(v) Scriosadh alt 3. (v) Section 3 deleted.
(vi) Alt nua. (vi) Title.
Tairgeadh leasú 5 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 5 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an Teideal, mar a leasaíodh. Title, as amended, agreed to.
4. CRÍOCHNÚ AN GHNÓ. 4. CONCLUSION OF BUSINESS.
Chríochnaigh an Coiste a bhreithniú ar The Committee concluded its an mBille ar 17.59 p.m. consideration of the Bill at 17.59/p.m.
5.TEACHTAIREACHT CHUIG DÁIL ÉIREANN. 5. MESSAGE TO DÁIL ÉIREANN.
Cuireadh teachtaireacht chun na Dála á Message sent to the Dáil acquainting it chur in iúl di gur chríochnaigh an Coiste that the Committee had completed its a bhreithniú ar an mBille agus go raibh consideration of the Bill and had made leasuithe déanta aige air agus go raibh amendments thereto and had amended leasú déanta aige ar an Teideal chun go the Title to read as follows: léifidh sé mar a leanas:
AN BILLE UM FHORBAIRT PEITRILIAM AGUS PETROLEUM AND OTHER MINERALS MIANRAÍ EILE (TOIRMEASC AR SCOILTEADH DEVELOPMENT (PROHIBITION OF ONSHORE HIODRÁLACH I DTÍR MÓR), 2016 HYDRAULIC FRACTURING) BILL 2016
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6. ATHLÁ. 6. ADJOURNMENT.
Chuaigh an Coiste ar athló ar 18.00p.m. The Committee adjourned at 18.00p.m. go dtí 11.00a..m. Dé Máirt, 16 until 11a.m. on Tuesday, 16 May, 2017. Bealtaine, 2017.
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Select Committee on
Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources
An Roghchoiste um
Chumarsáid, Athrú Aeráide agus Acmhaínní Nádúrtha
Minutes of Meeting Number S09
Page 142 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
______
Dé Máirt,16 Bealtaine, 2017
Tuesday, 16th May, 2017
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1. Chruinnigh an Coiste ar 11.00 a.m. 1. The Committee met at 11.00 a.m.
5 6 2. COMHALTAÍ I LÁTHAIR . 2. MEMBERS PRESENT .
An Teachta Hildegarde Ní Neachtáin (i Deputy Hildegarde Naughton (in the gCeannas), An Teachta Seán Ó Cadhain Chair), Deputy Seán Kyne, (Minister of (Aire Stáit ag An Roinn Cumarsáide, State at the Department of Gníomhaithe ar son na hAeráide agus Communications, Climate Action and Comhshaoil), na Teachtaí - Tadhg Ó Environment), Deputies –Timmy Dooley, Dubhlaoigh, Tomás Pringle agus Brian Deputy Thomas Pringle and Brian Stanley. de Stainléigh.
3. AN BILLE UM IASCACH INTÍRE (LEASÚ), 3. INLAND FISHERIES (AMENDMENT) BILL 2017. 2017. The Committee took the Bill into Chrom an Coiste ar an mBille a consideration. bhreithniú.
(i) Aontaíodh alt 1. (i) Section 1 agreed to.
(ii) Aontaíodh alt 2. (ii) Section 2 agreed to.
(iii) Aontaíodh alt 3. (iii) Section 3 agreed to.
(iv) Aontaíodh alt 4. (iv) Section 4 agreed to.
5 Bhí an Teachta Tomás Pringle; i láthair [B.O. 95(3)].
6 Deputy Thomas Pringle attended [S.O. 95(3)].
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(v) Aontaíodh alt 5. (v) Section 5 agreed to.
(vi) Aontaíodh an Teideal. (vi) Title agreed to.
4. CRÍOCHNÚ AN GHNÓ. 4. CONCLUSION OF BUSINESS.
Chríochnaigh an Coiste a bhreithniú ar The Committee concluded its an mBille ar 11.12 a.m. consideration of the Bill at 11.12 a.m.
5. TEACHTAIREACHT CHUIG DÁIL ÉIREANN. 5. MESSAGE TO DÁIL ÉIREANN.
Cuireadh teachtaireacht chun na Dála á Message sent to the Dáil acquainting it chur in iúl di gur chríochnaigh an Coiste that the Committee had completed its a bhreithniú ar an mBille agus nach consideration of the Bill and had made no raibh aon leasú déanta aige air. amendment thereto.
6. ATHLÁ. 6. ADJOURNMENT.
Chuaigh an Coiste ar athló ar 11.15 a.m. The Committee adjourned at 11.15a.m. go dtí 1.30 p.m. Dé Máirt, 17 Bealtaine, until 1.30 p.m. Tuesday, 17th May, 2017. 2017.
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Select Committee on
Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources
An Roghchoiste um
Chumarsáid, Athrú Aeráide agus Acmhaínní Nádúrtha
Minutes of Meeting Number S10
Page 145 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment
IMEACHTAÍ AN ROGHCHOISTE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE
______
Dé Céadaoin, 17 Bealtaine, 2017
Wednesday, 17th May, 2017
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1. Chruinnigh an Coiste ar 13.30 p.m. 1. The Committee met at 13.30 p.m.
2. COMHALTAÍ I LÁTHAIR 2. MEMBERS PRESENT
An Teachta Séamas Laighléis Leas- Deputy James Lawless, Vice-Chairman chathaoirleach (i gCeannas), An (in the Chair), Deputy Seán Kyne, Teachta Seán Ó Cadhain (Aire Stáit ag (Minister of State at the Department of An Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Communications, Climate Action and son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil), na Environment), Deputies- Michael Lowry; Teachtaí -; Micheál Ó Labhraí; Éamon Eamon Ryan; Brian Stanley. Ó Riain; Brian de Stainléigh.
3. AN BILLE FORBARTHA MIANRAÍ, 2015 3. MINERALS DEVELOPMENT BILL 2015.
Chrom an Coiste ar an mBille a The Committee took the Bill into bhreithniú. consideration. (i) Aontaíodh alt 1. (i) Section 1 agreed to.
(ii) Alt 2. (ii) Section 2. Tairgeadh leasú 1 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 1 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
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Tairgeadh leasú 2 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 2 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 3 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 3 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 4 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 4 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(iii) Aontaíodh ailt 3 go 6 go huile. (iii) Sections 3 to 6, inclusive, agreed to.
(iv) Alt 7. (vi) Section 7.
Tairgeadh leasú 5 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 5 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(v) Alt 8. (v) Section 8.
Tairgeadh leasú 6 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 6 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(vi) Alt 9. (vi) Section 9.
Tairgeadh leasú 7 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 7 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(vii) Aontaíodh ailt 10 go 16 go huile. (vii) Sections 10 to 16, inclusive, agreed to.
(viii) Alt 17. (viii) Section 17.
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Tairgeadh leasú 8 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 8 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(ix) Aontaíodh ailt 18 go 23 go huile. (ix) Sections 18 to 23, inclusive, agreed to.
(x) Alt 24. (x) Section 24.
Tairgeadh leasú 9 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 9 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xi) Aontaíodh ailt 25 go 33 go huile. (xi) Sections 25 to 33, inclusive, agreed to.
(xii) Alt 34. (xii) Section 34.
Tairgeadh leasú 10 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 10 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xiii) Aontaíodh alt 35. (xiii) Section 35 agreed to.
(xiv) Alt 36. (xiv) Section 36.
Tairgeadh leasú 11 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 11 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xv) Aontaíodh ailt 37 go 40 go huile. (xv) Sections 37 to 40, inclusive, agreed to.
(xvi) Alt 41. (xvi) Section 41.
Tairgeadh leasú 12 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 12 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
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Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xvii) Aontaíodh ailt 42 go 67 go huile. (xvii) Sections 42 to 67, inclusive, agreed to.
(xviii) Alt 68. (xviii) Section 68.
Tairgeadh leasú 13 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 13 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 14 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 14 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xix) Alt 75. (xix) Section 75.
Tairgeadh leasú 15 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 15 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 16 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 16 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 17 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 17 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xx) Aontaíodh ailt 76 go 79 go huile. (xx) Sections 76 to 79, inclusive, agreed to.
(xxi) Alt 80. (xxi) Section 80.
Tairgeadh leasú 18 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 18 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxii) Alt 81. (xxii) Section 81.
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Tairgeadh leasú 19 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 19 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxiii) Scriosadh alt 82. (xxiii) Section 82 deleted.
(xix) Aontaíodh ailt 83 go 87 go huile. (xix) Sections 83 to 87, inclusive, agreed to.
(xx) Alt 88. (xx) Section 88.
Tairgeadh leasú 20 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 20 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxi) Aontaíodh ailt 89 go 104 go huile. (xxi) Sections 89 to 104, inclusive, agreed to.
(xxii) Alt 105. (xxii) Section 105.
Tairgeadh leasú 21 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 21 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxiii) Aontaíodh ailt 106 go 115 go (xxiii) Sections 106 to 115, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(xxiv) Alt 116 (xxiv) Section 116
Tairgeadh leasú 22 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 22 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 23 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 23 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
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Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxv) Aontaíodh ailt 117 go 122 go (xxv) Sections 117 to 122, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(xxvi) Alt 123 (xxvi) Section 123.
Tairgeadh leasú 24 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 24 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar son Department of Communications, Climate na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) agus Action and Environment) proposed and aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxvii) Aontaíodh ailt 124 go 131 go (xxvii) Sections 124 to 131, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(xxviii). AN CRUINNIÚ AR FIONRAÍ. (xxviii). MEETING SUSPENDED.
Ordaíodh: An Cruinniú a chur ar fionraí Ordered: That the Meeting be now anois (An Teachta Séamas Laighléis, suspended. (Deputy James Lawless, Leas-chathaoirleach). Vice-Chairman ).
Cuireadh an Cruinniú ar fionraí dá réir sin ar 2.25p.m. The Meeting was accordingly suspended at 2.25p.m.
______
Ar 2.40 p.m. athchromadh ar an The Meeting was resumed at 2.40p.m. gCruinniú.
An Teachta Hildegarde Ní Neachtáin Deputy Hildegarde Naughton (in the Chair) (i gCeannas)
(i). AN BILLE FORBARTHA MIANRAÍ, 2015 (i) MINERALS DEVELOPMENT BILL 2015
D’athchrom an Coiste ar an mBille a The Committee resumed consideration bhreithniú. of the Bill.
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(ii) Alt 132. (ii) Section 132.
Tairgeadh leasú 25 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 25 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 26 (An Teachta Amendment 26 (Deputy James Lawless) Séamas Laighléis) agus tarraingíodh proposed and, by leave, withdrawn. siar an leasú, faoi chead.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(iii) Aontaíodh ailt 133 agus 134 go (iii) Sections 133 and 134 agreed to. huile.
(iv) Alt 135. (iv) Section 135.
Tairgeadh leasú 27 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 27 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 28 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 28 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 29 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 29 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(v) Aontaíodh alt.136 (v) Section 136 agreed to.
(vi) Alt 137. (vi) Section 137.
Tairgeadh leasú 30 (An Teachta Amendment 30 (Deputy James Lawless) Séamas Laighléis) agus tarraingíodh proposed and, by leave, withdrawn. siar an leasú, faoi chead.
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Tairgeadh leasú 31 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 31 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(vii) Alt 138. (vii) Section 138.
Tairgeadh leasú 32 (An Teachta Amendment 32 (Deputy James Lawless) Séamas Laighléis) agus tarraingíodh proposed and, by leave, withdrawn. siar an leasú, faoi chead.
Tairgeadh leasú 33 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 33 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(viii) Alt 139. (viii) Section 139.
Tairgeadh leasú 34 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 34 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(ix) Aontaíodh ailt 140 go 146 go (ix) Sections 140 to 146, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(x) Alt 147. (x) Section 147.
Tairgeadh leasú 35, (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 35, (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 36 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 36 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
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Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xi) Aontaíodh ailt 148 go 185 go (xi) Sections 148 to 185, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(xii) Alt 186. (xii) Section 186.
Tairgeadh leasú 37 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 37 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xiii) Aontaíodh ailt 187 go 197 go (xiii) Sections 187 to 197, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(xiv) Alt 198. (xiv) Section 198.
Tairgeadh leasú 38 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 38 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xv) Aontaíodh alt. 199 (xv) Section 199 agreed to.
(xvi) Alt 200. (xvi) Section 200.
Tairgeadh leasú 39 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 39 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xvii) Aontaíodh ailt 201 agus 202. (xvii) Sections 201 and 202 agreed to.
(xviii) Alt 203. (xviii) Section 203.
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Tairgeadh leasú 40 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 40 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xix) Alt 204. (xix) Section 204.
Tairgeadh leasú 41, (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 41, (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 42 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 42 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xx) Alt 205. (xx) Section 205.
Tairgeadh leasú 43 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 43 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxi) Alt 206. (xxi) Section 206.
Tairgeadh leasú 44 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 44 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxii) Aontaíodh ailt 207 go 213 go (xxii) Sections 207 to 213, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
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(xxiii) Alt 214. (xxiii) Section 214.
Tairgeadh leasú 45 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 45 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xix) Aontaíodh ailt 215 go 223 go (xix) Sections 215 to 223, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(xx) Alt nua. (xx) New section
Tairgeadh leasú 46, (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 46, (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 47 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 47 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 48, (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 48, (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 49 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 49 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 50 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 50 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
(xxi) Aontaíodh an t-al 224t, mar a (xxi) Section 224, as amended, agreed leasaíodh. to.
(xxii) Aontaíodh ailt 225 go 242 go (xxii) Sections 225 to 242, inclusive,
Page 156 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment huile. agreed to.
(xxiii) Alt 243. (xxiii) Section 243.
Tairgeadh leasú 51 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 51 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxiv) Aontaíodh ailt 244 go 248 go (xxiv) Sections 244 to 248, inclusive, huile. agreed to.
(xxv) Alt 249. (xxv) Section 249.
Tairgeadh leasú 52 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 52 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an t-alt, mar a leasaíodh. Section, as amended, agreed to.
(xxvi) Aontaíodh ailt 250 agus 251. (xxvi) Sections 250 and 251 agreed to.
(xxvii) Sceideal. (xxvii) Schedule.
Tairgeadh leasú 53 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 53 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Tairgeadh leasú 54 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 54 (Minister of State at the Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an Sceideal, mar a Schedule, as amended, agreed to leasaíodh.
(xxviii) Alt nua. (xxviii) Title.
Tairgeadh leasú 55 (Aire Stáit ag An Amendment 55 (Minister of State at the
Page 157 Annual Report 2016 Joint Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment Roinn Cumarsáide, Gníomhaithe ar Department of Communications, Climate son na hAeráide agus Comhshaoil) Action and Environment) proposed and agus aontaíodh an leasú. agreed to.
Aontaíodh an Teideal, mar a Title, as amended, agreed to. leasaíodh
4. CRÍOCHNÚ AN GHNÓ. 4. CONCLUSION OF BUSINESS.
Chríochnaigh an Coiste a bhreithniú The Committee concluded its ar an mBille ar 3:28p.m. consideration of the Bill at 3:28p.m.
5. TEACHTAIREACHT CHUIG DÁIL ÉIREANN 5. MESSAGE TO DÁIL ÉIREANN.
Cuireadh teachtaireacht chun na Message sent to the Dáil acquainting it Dála á chur in iúl di gur chríochnaigh that the Committee had completed its an Coiste a bhreithniú ar an mBille consideration of the Bill and had made agus go raibh leasuithe déanta aige amendments thereto and had amended air agus go raibh leasú déanta aige the Title to read as follows: ar an Teideal chun go léifidh sé mar a leanas:
AN ACT TO MAKE FURTHER AND BETTER PROVISION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MINERALS IN THE STATE AND FOR THAT PURPOSE TO REPEAL THE MINERALS COMPANY ACTS 1941 TO 1950 AND CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE MINERALS DEVELOPMENT ACTS 1940 TO 1999, TO MAKE CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS TO OTHER ACTS, TO GIVE EFFECT TO ARTICLE 3.3 OF THE MINAMATA CONVENTION ON MERCURY DONE AT GENEVA ON 19 JANUARY 2013, AND TO PROVIDE FOR RELATED MATTERS.
6. ATHLÁ. 6. ADJOURNMENT.
Chuaigh an Coiste ar athló ar 3:30 The Committee adjourned at 3:30p.m. p.m. sine dine. sine dine
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