Mr. Paul Hogan:

It is important to recognise the core decision making role of the local government system. Most planning decisions are made within eight weeks. That sets a very challenging benchmark. Many of the decisions that end up with An Bord Pleanála are very complex ones. They include the larger strategic infrastructure development, large-scale local authority developments, big housing schemes and big energy schemes. We are really keen to get it right regarding what is an appropriate and achievable timeline under normal circumstances. We also need to step aside perhaps, in framing that discussion, from the current deficit that is there. Measures have been put in place to address the backlog. The answer is yes, it is intended to balance the prioritization of national strategic infrastructure, housing and local authority development, with what is achievable and reasonable in the timeline. That is a really important point that we would hope to bring back to the committee.