Maria Bailey (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have one or two questions for Dr. Kelly in respect of which I accept she might not have the figures to hand today. In 2007-08 over 500 multi-applications were made to An Bord Pleanála. This year, only 65 or 68 applications were made. Is it the case that the majority of applications in respect of projects of over 100 units would always end up with An Bord Pleanála anyway? If Dr. Kelly does not have that information today she might forward it to the committee.

I fully respect what members have said today but I am supportive of fast-tracking the planning process for many reasons. Local members do have a role to play in planning decisions in the context of local area plans and development plans but where an application goes through the proper statutory process with the local government, councillors do not have a role, except to air the concerns of their constituents, which they will still be able to do at their meetings. I recognise that we have to tease out that issue further and, perhaps, to amend that process slightly.

I also acknowledge that as mentioned by Deputy Cowen, we need a focused and balanced approach but much of the action plan in terms of Rebuilding Ireland is around rebuilding supply. An Bord Pleanála will have a huge role to play in that regard. I would like to hear more detail around the type of resources that will be required. I fully respect that the witnesses cannot reference any planning application or any locations mentioned here and I do not expect specific answers in that regard.