Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It should be possible to deal with planning in a simple way but it is not, apparently. For instance, the Minister already made reference to issues for An Bord Pleanála regarding major infrastructural projects that cannot proceed. I have an example of one in my own town whereby a €22 million investment was approved ten or 12 years ago. Today, it was approved by An Bord Pleanála. In heaven's name why do we have to wait that length of time? There were judicial reviews and everybody goes for a judicial review at this stage. There may be various reasons for the judicial review but the upshot is that ultimately the project that cost €22 million beforehand will cost considerably more now. There are instances where projects go ahead after 15 years and more, in some cases, so we need to be ruthless in pursuit of those delays otherwise it is out of our hands. Governments cannot control the level of expenditure or anticipated expenditure unless some means is found to smooth the path of major projects, not to oppose them or force them down people's necks but go through the procedures that have to be gone through in order to protect the public purse, protect the public interest and ensure that progress is achieved.

Nearly ten years ago the local infrastructure housing activation fund, LIHAF, proposals were announced. A great number of them have not advanced at all because A has to wait for B, B has to object yet, C awaits to see the outcome of A and B because C proceeds and eventually the projects land in the mire. It is very sad to see that kind of thing happen and to try to explain to the general public who do not understand why this sort of thing should happen with consequent costs to the Exchequer.