Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

Nonetheless, I ask the Minister to take into account the perception abroad that the decision did not adhere to proper planning procedures. The issue must be faced and I ask the Minister not to intervene by blocking appeals to An Bord Pleanála. As the body established to adjudicate on planning matters, it is much more expert and qualified than the Minister or any other elected representatives, including me.

Lessons should be learnt, including, for example, from the cases of Mullaghmore and Lugalla, which pre-date the Minister's time in the Department. It is important not to exacerbate the situation.

It is interesting that questions hang over whether individuals in the Department are suitably qualified in the area of archaeology and their experience in the area of fieldwork. Why are the qualifications of officials who are in controlling positions in the Department in the areas of archaeology and monuments under question? If the Minister is to vest so much power in himself and his advisers, he should ensure that the qualifications of his officials are beyond question.

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