Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

The Minister is saying he does not agree with my proposal to increase the penalties and that there are other mechanisms that are equally punitive. I disagree with him in this regard. A clear declaration of intent must be made that those who are convicted will be penalised effectively. Under the planning legislation, for example, cases can go on forever and the fines ultimately imposed are not a serious issue for those on whom they are imposed. The inadequacy of penalties is a problem in many areas. When Drogheda grammar school was illegally demolished in 1987, for instance, the maximum fine for demolition of a listed building at that time was £10,000. As a result of legal action I and another person took, this penalty was increased legislatively to more than £1 million. Substantial penalties must be in place so that people will not even consider contravening the legislation.

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