Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I will ask my questions and the witnesses can get back to me afterwards. I support the work both organisations are doing in encouraging the public to get involved in the planning process. When I was a councillor, there were times when there were no submissions on very important planning projects. That is a job of work that needs to be done.

I have been asked to raise the issue of disability-proofing submissions to local authorities and An Bord Pleanála. Is that specifically covered in the Bill?

In its opening statement, the OPR welcomed the measures to reform the EIA process and provide clarity when EIAs will be required. Is there sufficient protection to prevent projects splitting to avoid EIAs? What is the best way to deal with this?

As regards An Bord Pleanála, there are some concerns about the removal of the requirements to outline all reasons for a decision. This was touched on earlier. Is this a step away from transparency and accountability? It was said earlier that the more reasons one gives, the more they can be used against the decision. Is giving a comprehensive outline of all the reasons for a decision such a great burden?

The Labour Party in England is proposing to introduce a tax, a use-it-or-lose-it measure. It is estimated there are between 70,000 and 80,000 uncommenced planning permissions in Ireland. We are in the middle of a crisis and we need to drive that.

I am not sure whether the witnesses can answer any of my questions now. They can always revert to the committee with a note.