Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

The Minister outlined an appeals mechanism. One needs deep pockets for judicial reviews, however. It is not like taking a court case where if one wins, one gets one’s costs. In a judicial review, one is paying the full costs. It is only wealthy people who have that recourse.

I have some experience of disputes concerning Kildare County Council’s planning decisions for Weston Airport. Even in that scenario, which is minor compared to Dublin Airport, getting expertise can be expensive for residents’ groups which rely on voluntary fundraising. A realistic mechanism has to be put in place to ensure there is an honest broker in disputes. There is a validity in strengthening the provisions with this amendment.