Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We see the role of the State as providing public services and infrastructure.

To respond to the questions asked initially by Deputy Joan Burton, it is intended to place the national planning framework on a statutory footing, but I do not have a date in that regard. I understand primary legislation has to be passed first. I am not sure if it has yet been passed. However, the sequence is that it has to be passed and then the Minister can put the framework on a statutory footing. That is what is intended. One of the reasons the national spatial strategy failed was that it did not have statutory underpinning. We want to make sure we do not repeat the mistakes of the past. That is why the national planning framework will be placed on a statutory footing.

Yes, it is correct - I admit that I have been touring the country. I enjoy doing so and hope to continue to do so. It is great to get out of Dublin.

See this speech in context