Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)

I welcome the comprehensive announcement and publication today by the Minister of State, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, of the planning review. It was quite correct to publish the review so it can inform this debate. The review has taken too long and I agree with previous speakers who made this point. I would have much preferred if the review had been conducted in a much more speedy fashion.

I agree with Deputy Ó Cuív that confidence in the planning system has been undermined. He is quite right; it was undermined by Fianna Fáil. Tonight's motion tabled by Fianna Fáil is wrong on several points. It is incredible that Fianna Fáil should try to mix up political control by the Labour Party with incorrect or bad planning decisions made by planning departments. What brought on people's scorn of planning is what Fianna Fáil got involved in with regard to zonings which was absolutely despicable. However, there is no mention of this in the motion. I had some hope after the general election that we might see a Fianna Fáil nua but unfortunately I do not think we will. What we are seeing tonight is nothing more than an attempt by Fianna Fáil to smear my party with its manure-----

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