Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the question. On overdue decisions within the board, I met with the new board of An Bord Pleanála last week and have asked it to come forward with a plan for the backlog, particularly but not exclusively in areas of residential development. We have provided over the past 12 months sanction for an additional 59 staff so far.

This Thursday I will publish the consolidated planning Bill, the most significant reform of planning legislation embarked on since at least 2000. It will continue our reform of An Bord Pleanála, which is urgently required. I have sought a plan from the board to tackle the backlog. We had a good meeting last week with all the new board members and the new interim chair. I will keep the Deputy informed of progress.

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