Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Benson. I have a couple more questions. This question is to Dr. Norton and Mr. Mandal. Dr. Norton is saying that a plan-based, rather than a development management process, is the way to go. I think we would all agree with that. However, I see a couple of key problems with this. First is the ministerial directives in section 28(1C), to which the Dublin Democratic Planning Alliance has referred. As long as that is in place, are we not left in a situation whereby, rather than getting plan-based certainty, local area plans and development plans will be undermined through the planning process? That encourages increased challenges, conflicts, speculation, and looks to get more and more units in. Is that not a fundamental part of the problem? I will leave it there for both witnesses to answer.