Michael Kitt (Fianna Fail)

I support what Senator Brady and the Minister said about clarity of language. I expect all sides of the House would agree on the importance of this issue.

The introduction of preplanning meetings has been very important for public representatives and the public. Local authorities must employ more planners because there is a shortage of planners due to the significant number of applications now being made to each local authority. When we abolished the dual mandate we put in place an arrangement for Oireachtas Members to meet with county managers at least once a year but in many local authorities more frequent meetings take place. In County Galway we try to meet at least twice a year and perhaps we will improve on that in the future. We can also discuss planning issues at those meetings, which is important. As well as the introduction of more clarity, positive things are happening in local authorities in regard to planning and planning applications in particular.