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

Yes. It states that:

In deciding to issue and in formulating or amending a National Planning Statement under section 23, the Minister shall have regard to the desirability of setting out policy and providing guidance in relation to planning matters to support proper planning and sustainable development, including, but not limited to, the following: (a) preparation of regional spatial and economic strategies, development plans, urban area plans, priority area plans, coordinated area plans and development schemes