Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

Like other Members, I seek a debate on the Morris report so we can discuss the issues that need to be addressed. I welcome the thrust of the planning guidelines but I am anxious to see the details because the devil is in the detail. Does the Leader know if they are simply guidelines? When the previous Minister, Deputy Cullen, first spoke about the guidelines on one-off housing, I asked that they be put in the form of a directive.

There is a need for uniformity throughout the country because there has been a lack of common sense in some areas. Some planning officers are too rigid in their attitude, as I have heard from public representatives throughout the country. It is important that these guidelines be issued in directive form to ensure there is uniformity. If that is the intention, I will welcome it. Everybody wants an open and courteous service from local authorities. In the case of one-off housing in rural areas, there should be on-site consultation where it is required in the interests of the customer.

I agree with Senator Mansergh's call for a debate on community employment schemes. There is a need to refine the rules and to return to the previous position given the importance of the schemes for so many organisations and the community.