Michael Kitt (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister's positive contribution. We spoke about access to officials and I know that local authority officials would welcome interaction with Oireachtas Members and local authorities. Area meetings are very important and I referred to them on Second Stage.

Senator Dardis referred to planning matters. Oireachtas Members should be allowed discuss matters such as prior notice provision with council officials. I do not mean they should try to exert influence but rather discuss issues of planning with the officials. I would like to see those issues covered in the regulations.