Mr. Terry Sheridan:

As regards the resources, we have set the precedent.

In the establishment of the SHD arrangements, additional resources were allocated to the board to ensure additional responsibilities imposed could be met. If we are to introduce new procedures and processes relating to housing developments in the form of mandatory formal pre-application consultations, etc., between local authorities and developers, the reality is that the resourcing of local authorities would have to be looked to ensure they are able to fulfil their responsibilities. The Department has not been found wanting in the resourcing of the board and we will have to take the resourcing of local authorities into account under any new arrangements. This can be discussed further during the SHD consultative review process, when we will engage with local authorities.