Seanad debates

Thursday, 5 December 2002

National Spatial Strategy: Statements.

 

I take issue with An Taisce, but we should not just place the blame on that organisation. There is a group called Friends of the Irish Environment which has caused more trouble in the west and in rural areas than anyone else. At least An Taisce is honest about it decisions, but Friends of the Irish Environment is a sinister organisation. It has brought files from Roscommon County Council and many county councils to An Bord Pleanála, just for the sake of doing so. I know of young couples who legitimately obtained planning permission but, unfortunately, they had to wait six, seven or nine months until cases brought by Friends of the Irish Environment were heard by An Bord Pleanála. I do not think this is fair and the gloves must come off in terms of how we deal with bodies such as An Taisce and, in particular, Friends of the Irish Environment.

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