1642. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to Parliamentary Question No. 507 of 30 June, the timelines for finalising the draft guidance and terms of reference for developing new guidance to support planning authorities in incorporating the EU Water Framework Directive into their decision making; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55721/26]

The draft guidance for the incorporation of the Water Framework Directive into the planning system is currently undergoing internal review. It is anticipated that the final draft guidance will be published for public consultation later this year.