Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This is really important. If we are going to make these types of changes, and we all want more clarity, certainty and consistency in our planning process and can all support a plan-lead approach to planning to achieve better outcomes for the greater good, we need to have confidence in the process. We need confidence not just among members of the Government but right across society. Society have been generally engaged with this subject and this is very welcome.

The issue of resources has been raised by many contributors. They support the objectives and the proposals but they question the ability of organisations, be it local authorities or An Bord Pleanála, to be resourced to implement in day-to-day practice the changes being proposed. Mr. Hogan has said that none of the issues are insurmountable and that is great, but on what basis has the Department concluded that they are not insurmountable? What exercise is the Department going through, with local authorities and An Bord Pleanála, to scope out the additional resources that will be required? Will the Department be making a statement on this? I know Mr. Hogan said it is not an issue for legislation and I agree with him on that.

It is very important for us as legislators, if we are going to make such changes, that we do so by building confidence in the public that those changes will be implementable and will practically benefit the citizens. Can Mr. Hogan kindly talk us through what is going on with that, please?