Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I compliment Senator Ulick Burke on taking a brave stand on this issue. It is something that should concern every Member. There should be an inquiry into what is happening in planning in Galway. This is not a political or a party issue; everyone in the House should seek to discover why these questions are being asked. Those on Galway County Council should recognise that they are not separate from the rest of the world and if they take decisions like this, they will have to answer questions in another place at another time. There is something not right here. We should intervene on this issue and seek a full inquiry or, at least, an explanation. This is a matter for the Department of the Environment and Local Government and the area to which it relates needs to be opened up. I hope Senator Ulick Burke will seek a debate in the House where it can be discussed. I would be happy to support him in making such a request.