Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses from the Department and An Bord Pleanála. Like other speakers, I also have major concerns with the SHD process. When this was originally brought in, it was for the delivery of additional housing supply. I do not think it has worked the way it should have. We now need to know that the public has a voice.

Regarding An Bord Pleanála, I have concerns in general about timescales. I refer to my own local authority and what is happening. In his opening statement, Mr. Hyde referred to "economic strategies, as well as the various section 28 ministerial guidelines published over the last decade, set a clear roadmap for appropriate development". I accept that but do we need to change them?

We are now living in a different era. The SHD process was originally established to develop and deliver. I refer to the concerns that have emerged in this regard. It was a trial and a learning process for everybody, including the Department, An Bord Pleanála and the local authorities. It needs to be wound down now, however. It is important, though, that we focus on the roadmap and what we can do in working with the local authorities and An Bord Pleanála to look at guidelines. Does Mr. Hyde have any concerns in this regard? Does he feel the guidelines need to be changed? I refer in general regarding the SHD process but also regarding once-off developments, businesses etc. The issue of timescale is my biggest issue with An Bord Pleanála. I noticed that 17 extra staff and four board members have been assigned to the SHD division, which is welcome. I believe, however, that An Bord Pleanála needs an overall review and I would like to know the witnesses' opinion.

Turning to the representatives from the Department, it was stated that "the Department is also giving consideration to establishing a SHD consultation group to examine what aspects of the SHD process might be incorporated in the planning system, through further legislation". Will the witnesses explain that? I also have concerns on that aspect. I do not know if we have all been affected by Covid-19. Perhaps the witnesses from the Department and An Bord Pleanála might comment on that aspect regarding delays in planning. I know people are being delayed and there was a hold on planning, so I presume An Bord Pleanála was on hold as well. Will the witnesses confirm how Covid-19 has affected them? What do they think about the Department establishing an SHD consultation group? I also seek the views of the witnesses regarding an overall review of An Bord Pleanála, in a general perspective, and at the roadmap and what we can do to change the guidelines.