Francis Noel Duffy (Dublin South West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 3:

In page 4, line 25, after "development" to insert "and does not materially contravene the development plan or local area plan relating to the area".

The Minister and I have served as councillors, as have most Deputies present. I am fully aware of the significance and value of county development plans and the long hours or debate and consultation that goes with them. Therefore, I would like us, as Deputies and a Minister, to ensure that the LRD is in line with development plans and does not materially contravene them. This was a feature of the SHDs and it consequently led to many unsustainable developments, which were vehemently objected to by local residents and representatives. This is still ongoing and costing communities a great deal of money and stress. The idea behind this amendment - I have spoken about this in the Chamber as well - is to not allow An Bord Pleanála to contravene the development plans that are in place.