Verona Murphy (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It should be a concern because the planning policies we have today mean that most of what is expected is not viable. That is why developers are not building. High densities have been pushed on them. There is no viability in the development and, therefore, planning permissions have been granted but buildings will not be built.

I am glad to hear the Taoiseach confirm that there are issues with the policy, particularly dezoning serviced sites. It would make absolutely no sense. I hope the Taoiseach can appreciate that doing that would very quickly - not eventually - drive up the price of the land that is left. Does the Taoiseach believe that dezoning almost 80% of the zoned land in Wexford would make the remaining lands cheaper? That is not the purpose it would serve. Dezoning serves to do one thing, which is to put us back in a position where we are hosting another Mahon tribunal.

It is utter madness. I ask the Taoiseach to confirm that he will instruct the Minister to ensure that fully serviced lands with planning permission, which was extended during Covid-19, is not dezoned.

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