Brian Stanley (Laois, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have listened to the Minister of State's reply. Given water is a huge concern, I am glad that he has given assurances that section 79 of the Bill caters for that issue. With regard to the local authorities, the problem is that their planning enforcement sections are under-resourced and at times hamstrung. They are at times going after minor breaches of the planning code while major breaches are ignored. In the light of experience during the years, I believe many other representatives would concur with this. The breaches by major companies are at times not followed through as diligently because the local authority may fear it is taking on something that is too big and which it does not have the powers to pursue. I believe this is an issue. I am happy to withdraw the amendment on the basis of the assurances given by the Minister of State, but I ask that the point be noted. We have to equip local authorities better and get them to prioritise. There are big issues to be sorted out. Much time in court and ratepayers' money is tied up in going after the small fish while the sharks are left swimming around in the pool.

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