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

In response to Deputy Ó Broin, absolutely not. The amendment did not arise out of any lobbying; it came about after a review of the published Bill by officials. The Bill has been continuously reviewed by the Department to ensure that it will deliver the best possible planning system into the future for the people of Ireland. While the reporting of advice alludes to perceptions and references lobbying, the reality is that the change proposed in amendment No. 605 is a result of the ongoing process. The intention behind the amendment is to support the plan-led approach whereby matters related to housing numbers, estimated capacity and zoning are determined by planning authorities at the development plan stage, but with an appropriate and proportionate element of flexibility, in line with statutory guidance. This flexibility is important in the context of the delivery of the housing and accommodation this country needs for its growing population. I gave a commitment that the officials will provide a note to members of the committee tomorrow morning and that we would come back with an amendment on Report Stage in respect of this matter.