Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will refer to energy projects that are sub-threshold for strategic development. I will also refer to larger projects, given the fact that we are trying to develop transmission lines. Support or reorganisation might be necessary. When planning is thrown into the mix, the sector often becomes too precarious for private investors. They do not know for how long they will be waiting. Time is money. The process frustrates applicants.

In my town, a potential commercial development might see a fast food business receiving planning permission if An Bord Pleanála sees fit, but those involved have been waiting since January. It is a strategic development. More needs to be done, be it in terms of making additional resources available or reorganising the process. The situation is having an adverse impact on commercial ventures that require planning permission.