Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Section 150 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 requires An Bord Pleanála to adopt a code of conduct for members and its employees. The code is a comprehensive document and it is intended that the board will adhere to it. Specific requirements under the code prohibit membership of political parties or organisations involved in planning, provide for a declaration of interests to be completed annually, place a prohibition on engaging in any conduct that would bring the board into disrepute, provide for the reporting of improper communications, disclosure by board members of conflicts of interests at board meetings, etc. The full list is available on the board's website.

The manner in which this issue was dealt with was appropriate. However, on a more general basis, I am actively examining An Bord Pleanála. It was established in 1976 and has never been reviewed or looked at in an holistic way. I will address this in the future. However, in regard to the specific case, if the Deputy has additional specific information he would like to make me aware of in a personal capacity, he can write to me. I do not have a concern.

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