Mr. Eamonn Kelly:

This particular amendment does not address enforcement but substitute consent. The enforcement process was reviewed a couple of years ago and there is an obligation on local authorities to investigate when complaints are made. There are steps they must carry out because enforcement is a very serious process and local authorities do not undertake it lightly.

On paperwork and delays, I cannot comment on any individual cases, but it is clear that enforcement could have significant impacts on the recipient of the enforcement case. Local authorities would take that very seriously in ensuring that all the paperwork is in order. I cannot comment on the length of time it takes to process court paperwork. Again, that would be a matter for the individual local authorities. All I can say is that enforcement is an important part of the planning system. The issue of resourcing for local authorities is possibly not a matter for this session.

If the Deputy wants to raise the matter with us separately, we would be more than happy to talk it through. In terms of this specific presentation today, I do not know if I can get into any more detail on that.