John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was going to get to that point. I will speak to the Minister and, as the Deputy noted in his opening comments, there is a balance to be struck. We want the office to be completely independent but it does allow for research. I looked at a map of the area in question and it is large. The Deputy has represented it for years and it has the potential to change utterly the landscape out there. It could provide sustainable homes and communities for thousands of people.

I will discuss the matter with the Minister, Deputy Eoghan Murphy. I reiterate that it is open to individual local authorities, members of the public or community groups to request that the Office of the Planning Regulator carry out the work to which the Deputy refers. The regulator was famously independent in his previous role in the Custom House. I am sure that he and those working with him will ensure that legitimate issues raised by individuals or communities will be thoroughly examined without fear or favour. We wish to ensure that the office is completely removed from the world of politics. I will discuss the issue of research with the Minister. I encourage the Deputy and the community representatives to apply directly to the Office of the Planning Regulator.

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