Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First, this is based on the process for SID applications. Second, while I hear the Deputies' viewpoints, for applications that are approved, all the submission details will be held under the marine spatial plan portal on the marineplan.iewebsite. For all successful applications, all documentation relevant to the planning decision will be held on that portal and captured for all time. That is provided for under Chapter 8, if the Deputies wish to refer back.

Amendment No. 237 seeks to provide that the board may hold meetings with the applicant for permission or any other person for the purpose of determining the application or resolving any issue with the applicant or any disagreement between the applicant and any other party, including in advance of an oral hearing.

I thank the Deputies for this proposal and I understand that it is their intention that such a facility could encourage the speedy resolution of specific matters with the aim of expediting the delivery of much-needed infrastructure. It is my intention, however, that the provisions in this Bill as they relate to the planning process would avoid instances in which the public might be excluded from decision-making. It is my understanding that this power, as it exists in the SID provisions under section 37F, is rarely used by An Bord Pleanála for this very reason. Although I understand the Deputies' desire that decisions be made more quickly, I want to ensure the public can participate where such matters can be resolved in a public forum such as an oral hearing.

Therefore, based on the aforementioned, I ask the Deputies concerned to consider withdrawing the amendment.