(1) The Authority must
hold round-table conferences in accordance with this section for the purpose
of assisting the Authority and the Minister to assess the views of interested
bodies and persons on such matters related to—
(a) the
operation of this Act; or
(b) the
protection, restoration or enhancement of the environment within the scope of
this Act,
as the Authority may determine.
(1a) Round-table
conferences are to be held at such intervals as the Authority may determine.
(2) The Authority must
endeavour to ensure that those persons invited by the Authority to attend a
round-table conference represent a wide range of interests and expertise in
relation to the matters to be considered and include representatives of the
community, industry and relevant environmental and professional organisations.
(3) Subject to this
section, round-table conferences will—
(a) be
held at such times; and
(b)
consist of such number of persons; and
(c) be
conducted according to such procedures,
as the Authority may determine.
(4) The
Chief Executive of the Authority or, if the Chief Executive is unable to
attend, a member of the Board must be present at a round-table conference.