Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

I support the call by Senators MacSharry and O'Toole for a debate on planning issues, for which I have called on a number of occasions. There is great concern in this regard, particularly in my home county, Clare. Until recently, there were two agencies which had an unnecessary role in the whole planning process, one of which was Dúchas. I am delighted the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has recently made some very necessary changes. However, one group still remains in place – I refer to An Taisce, which is causing untold problems throughout the country. There is a nightmare situation in County Clare, with planning objections being made by people from outside the county.

I am not sure we should deal with this today. The Minister should be present for such a debate because legislation will be required. We must review the whole area as to who has the right to object and their reasons for objecting. The idea of somebody who lives in County Donegal objecting to a house being built in County Clare is quite outrageous. This is happening.