Edward Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That answer is high level. What I am getting at here is that more micromanaging is required. In particular, each county has a target but I would suggest this should be monitored on a monthly basis, with an explanation sought if it is not reached. This should be done cumulatively as well. It should even go so far as having quarterly meetings with CEOs and the heads of planning and the Minister and Minister of State with responsibility for housing. It needs to be done at that level, otherwise it will not happen.

On a separate aspect of housing delivery, what is the motivation for councils to deliver more housing? I suggested a monitoring procedure as one way. Another way is to incentivise councils, as happens in England. Councils that reach delivery targets could be rewarded with extra funding for infrastructure. This could include parks, sports facilities and other community benefits. This infrastructure should be the norm, of course, but we need to see a clear correlation between housing delivery and infrastructure delivery. I would also like to see a detailed target for affordable housing. This area of housing has been neglected and needs specific focus. The monthly delivery figures should show affordable, private, social and cost rental.

I have other suggestions. Can restrictions be lifted on tiered zoned land? Tier 1 land must be developed before tier 2 land is allowed to be developed, but that needs to be loosened up. Can planning permissions that are due to expire in the next two years be extended? We are in a challenging situation and we must remove all roadblocks to house building. The Office of the Planning Regulator must refrain from introducing tiered zoning. It must look at the bigger picture and support house building rather than having an overly strict interpretation of policy. Can deadlines be put on An Bord Pleanála for decisions? County councils adhere to a strict deadline for planning decisions but the board does not. I know of a planning decision that was due last July and the applicant is still waiting on the board.

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