Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)

I agree with a number of the comments made by the Deputy. First, there is a need to restore confidence in the planning system. In that context, we must respond to the abuses and corruption identified in the Mahon tribunal's report. The Minister, other Ministers and I intend to respond to all of the recommendations contained in that report in a substantial and complete way.

The investigations which are the subject of this question were instigated by the former Minister, Mr. John Gormley, and represent a selection of the overall number of complaints received by the Department in respect of virtually every local authority in the country. The Department receives approximately 8,000 complaints from the public per annum about a variety of issues. I am sure the position is the same in other Departments. The seven cases in question were selected by the former Minister and we are carrying out investigations into them. If the report on these matters suggests further and external investigations are required, I will order them. We will publish a full report. The investigators from the Department have carried out on-site visits in the seven local authorities in question and will supply us with a complete analysis. I intend to publish the reports and recommendations I receive in full. I am committed to ensuring confidence in the planning system is restored.

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