John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

In October last, the chairman, in a communication to the Clerk of the Dáil, indicated that subject to unforeseen circumstances or delays, the tribunal anticipated that its public hearings would be completed by late summer 2008. Thereafter, it would commence the preparation of its report or reports, and such recommendations, as it deems appropriate. This will be a major undertaking, which might be expected to take a considerable number of months to complete.

On the issue of overall costs, the chairman has informed the Clerk of the Dáil that the total costs arising from the tribunal should not exceed €300 million, and may well be less than this figure. The timescale of the tribunal is lengthy and the costs are significant. Nevertheless, we must be conscious of the fact that the planning tribunal has conducted its business within the current statutory framework governing tribunals, and the specific remit imposed under its terms of reference. We have confidence that it has done, and continues to do, its duty properly, effectively and efficiently and has discharged its responsibilities within this context.

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