Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is probably aware, the ESRI report notes higher than expected population growth and planning permissions in the eastern and midland region between 2016 and 2020. However, but it puts forward a caveat in this regard by acknowledging that the NDP is still in its early stage of development relative to the 2040 targets. However, this is an area of concern for myself and my colleagues as we work to achieve balanced regional development across the State in line with the NDP. We need to consider this issue further. As a result, the ESRI report points to the importance of the ongoing review of the national planning framework, NPF, in the context of the NDP and the need to ensure balanced regional development and compact growth.

In light of his work, the Deputy will be aware that the NPF is under review. That review is due to be finalised in quarter 2 of this year. The review will also update the demographic and econometric modelling work which underpinned the original NPF in order to make adjustments, as required, in response to the census of 2022. In addition, the ESRI report on the NDP notes that the planned issue of the sustainable residential development and compact settlement guidelines for planning authorities were published by the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, on 15 January. I hope that the issues the Deputy is referring to can be considered not just by me but also by the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, in the context of the review of the NPF.

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