Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In terms of the development plan process, the provision applies to zoned land and land that has come through a development plan process. It is one of the most important roles for councillors. Most of them take it seriously but some do not and I wish they did. One of the most important jobs for a councillor is his or her role in decisions on the development plan, the zoning of land, the targeting of land, what one wants to develop on lands and the overall plans for a community. Even when it comes to a rental strategy, we ask councillors to bear it in mind when analysing development plans. We also ask them to set aside lands for rental plans.

An Bord Pleanála judges an application based on all of the different reports. The development plan is key because it is the rulebook for the planning of a local area. An Bord Pleanála must adhere to a development plan and will do so. Likewise, with all of the other guidance. However, the development plan is key. There is no danger of its benefit being eroded through the process. We had this conversation in the Seanad. The provision does not allow unzoned land to enter the process. The provision only applies to zoned land.