Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As regards the intent of this amendment, section 34(9) reads "Where, within the period ... the applicant for a permission under this section gives to the planning authority in writing his or her consent to the extension of the period for making a decision". There are two aspects to that on which I want to get a proper note. First, if the planning authority is amenable to further time, the applicant must give consent for that time. If the planning authority deems that the applicant is not willing to give further time, that is the point I want to get absolute clarity on. If you look for a voluntary extension of time at the moment, the planning authority can refuse it. This goes back to Deputy Ó Broin's point. I want to get a note and absolute clarity on this. This should arise whereby the planning authority deems it needs more time and the applicant consents to that period.