Mr. Paul Hogan:

On the public consultation issue, I highlight that it is not proposed to change the prefix to this part of the legislation which is that the "planning authority shall take whatever steps [it considers] necessary to consult the public". It is important to understand that aspect, and that it remains in place, as does the facility for oral submissions on an individual meeting basis. All we are saying is that, in taking those steps, there shall be at least a public or online meeting. I reiterate, and this will be further set out in firm guidance, that generally a consultation procedure or programme is required at this point in the process. It is the same in that regard as it is at a later stage, which is not set out in legislation but happens everywhere and always. Not everything, therefore, must be set out to the nth degree in legislation, as long it is in the context of taking those necessary steps to consult the public. That is what matters.