79.—(1) The Minister may, whenever he thinks proper, give such general directives in writing to the Agency as to policy in relation to environmental protection F82[or radiological protection].

(2) In performing its functions the Agency shall have regard to any directives given by the Minister under this section.

F83[(3) Subject to subsection (3A), nothing in this section shall be construed as enabling the Minister to exercise any power or control in relation to the performance in particular circum~ stances by the Agency of a function assigned to it by or under this Act.]

F84[(3A) Subsection (3) shall not affect the performance by the Minister of functions transferred (whether before or after the passing of the Minister for the Environment and Local Govern~ ment (Performance of Certain Functions) Act, 2002) to him from the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs by an order under section 6(1) of the Ministers and Secretaries (Amendment) Act, 1939.]

(4) Where the Minister gives a directive under this section he shall—

(a) as soon as may be cause a copy of the directive to be laid before each House of the Oireachtas,

(b) cause a notice of the issue of the directive to be published in Iris Oifigiúil and in at least one daily newspaper circulating in the State, and

(c) cause a copy of the directive to be transmitted to the Agency and to each planning authority.

(5) A notice under subsection (4) (b) shall specify where a copy of the directive to which it relates may be obtained and the fee (if any) payable in respect of such copy which shall not exceed the reasonable cost of making the copy.