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

We understand the import of what the Cathaoirleach is saying. I am not speaking directly to the Chair, but rather answering a question in the general sense. If we are too prescriptive, we run the risk that the development plan will not cover every aspect. There has to be an element of discretion and judgment and I am conscious of the role of elected members at local authority level. One of the key areas where they have absolute power is their reserved function in the development plan. Deputy Ó Broin gave an example of a case. Ultimately that is the role of the Office of the Planning Regulator, OPR, and our planning system. Councillors can come along, which is their right and is what they are elected to do, and put forward their proposal for a plan. It is then up to the OPR - that is why it was set up - to review the system and make a call. It then comes to the Minister. That is our system. However, councillors still have core responsibility for their own development plans. In summary, I am open to-----