Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

That would be part of the ongoing overall review of the legislation as we legislate. We have looked at the role of the OPR and are happy there is an appropriate role for both the Minister and the OPR in issuing draft directions. The OPR recommends to the Minister to issue draft directions. It is around the overall theme of consistency of application throughout the system. Far from centralising power, it is ensuring consistency at regional and development-plan levels. It is critical, too, to ensure proportionate oversight. The OPR is independent in its function and provides checks and balances on policy. It is an important role. We do not see it as centralisation of power; it is ensuring there are checks and balances and proportionate oversight in the system.