Fitzgerald calls for equity of costs at planning oral hearing

FG Senate Leader and Spokesperson on Environment seek level playing pitch for voluntary groups opposing incinerator in Rathcoole, Co. Dublin

Fine Gael Senate Leader, Senator Frances Fitzgerald, has called for equity of costs in An Bord Pleanala's Oral Hearing into plans to locate a private incinerator in Rathcoole, Co. Dublin. Senator Fitzgerald raised this issue this morning (Wednesday, 28th Oct) when she addressed the Preliminary Oral Hearing in The Green Isle Hotel, Clondalkin where she was joined by the Fine Gael Spokesperson on Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Phil Hogan T.D.

"This morning at the hearing I called on the Inspector of the Oral Hearing to address the issue of costs now so that local and voluntary groups would be in a position to participate in the hearing on an equal footing.

"Ireland is a signatory to the Aarahus Convention and under this Convention, and also under Article 10(a) of the Environmental Assessment Act, it is vital that equity of costs is afforded to all sides participating in an oral hearing with environmental concerns. It is most regrettable that the Inspector has decided that no determination on the issue of costs will be made until the end of the hearing. This adds uncertainty to the financial position of voluntary groups concerned about the impact of this private incinerator on their community."

"It is very difficult for local groups operating on a voluntary basis to be able to participate in an Oral Hearing when the costs of expert witnesses, legal advice and so on are expensive. Ireland must meet its obligations to these voluntary groups with environmental concerns,"
stated Senator Fitzgerald.

Speaking after attending the hearing this morning, Fine Gael's Spokesperson on Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Phil Hogan T.D stated:
"Fine Gael is opposing this incinerator in Rathcoole and through Frances Fitzgerald, is working with the local community to assist them with their concerns and opposition. It is vital that equity of costs is addressed to allow voluntary groups put forward their case."