Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)

The report of the Mahon tribunal identified instances of serious corruption. We must ensure we learn from what occurred in the past and implement the recommendations contained in that report. The seven investigations relating to the local authorities do not relate to instances of corruption but rather to suggestions the administrative systems were not as good as they should have been. For example, an issue arose with regard to the height of buildings in Dublin and there were a number of differences of opinion between An Bord Pleanála and Dublin City Council in this regard. Issues also arose in respect of pre-planning meetings in Cork. There were other issues regarding the way planning departments were run. These are all serious issues, but they are not of the same scale as those identified in the report of the Mahon tribunal. In fairness to the local authorities concerned, we must acknowledge this fact. If there is anything which suggests there is a need for further investigation to be carried out by an independent outside entity into the matters which are the subject of this question, I am committed to establishing such an investigation. The report of the Mahon tribunal contains very significant recommendations which I intend to implement.

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