James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

In regard to ensuring the extensions are not sought for speculative purposes, the extension of duration provisions are time-bound and cease to have effect if the development has not commenced within 18 months of the coming into operation of the provision. The fact the extension ceases to have operation or effect if the development is not commenced should deter speculative applications.

In regard to detailing the numbers who avail of such an extension, section 42(5) of the 2000 Act already provides that the details of any extension of duration are entered onto the planning register. In the circumstances, I am not minded to accept the amendments.

See this speech in context