Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I hope the Deputy knows that, according to planning legislation, I am the only person in the House who cannot intervene in the planning process. We would like to help if we could, but, legally, I am precluded from doing so. Politically, Deputies in this House have got into a fair amount of trouble during the years for intervening in planning matters which did not get us anywhere. I understand the sentiments being expressed by the Deputy on behalf of her constituents. I have, however, outlined the process which must take its course. There is a fairly rigorous application procedure laid down under law in respect of licences that must be granted to allow the concerts to proceed. I advise those involved to go through these processes. This is primarily a matter for the planning department of Dublin City Council, to which written submissions can be sent. The case outlined by the Deputy on behalf of her constituents can be made as robustly as possible.

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