7Functions of the Secretary

7 Functions of the Secretary S. 7(1) amended by Nos 76/1998 s. 9(b)(i), 28/2019 s. 8(1). (1) The Secretary must administer this Act in such a way as to promote the objectives of this Act. S. 7(2) amended by Nos 76/1998 s. 9(b)(i)(ii), 28/2019 s. 8(2). (2) If the Secretary is of the opinion that action taken or to be taken by a public authority is likely to threaten the persistence of a listed taxon or community of flora or fauna or a critical habitat the Secretary may require the public authority to consult with the Secretary either before the action starts, or if the action has already started within 15 days of the request being made. S. 7(3) amended by No. 76/1998 s. 9(b)(i), substituted by No. 28/2019 s. 8(3). (3) In administering this Act, the Secretary is to give proper consideration to the principles of this Act.