Mr. Terry Sheridan:

On foot of the recent national planning framework published last year, which sets out the overarching framework for planning and development on a national basis, we are bringing in regional spatial and economic strategies that must be taken into account by local authorities in the development of local development plans. The national planning framework and regional spatial and economic strategies will have particular objectives regarding renewable energy, including wind farms, and, accordingly, must be taken into account by local authorities in their plans. They are in the process of being reviewed on foot of the adoption of the regional spatial and economic strategies. All local authorities will adhere to new timelines with regard to the adoption of plans. Under the new arrangements, which will be overseen by the Office of the Planning Regulator, there will be an obligation on local authorities to have regard to national policy generally, including with regard to renewable energy, when adopting their plans, as well the other requirements set out in the Planning Act. Where previously, directions were initiated within the Department against local authorities and confirmed by the Minister, that process is in transition and that function is being transferred to the Office of the Planning Regulator.