James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 48:

In page 13, between lines 21 and 22, to insert the following:

"(3) When making a decision in respect of a proposed development for which an application is made under section 37E, the Board shall, without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), consult with any relevant planning, local or regional authority, so that it shall be apprised of the opinions of local people and their representatives, and the Board shall—

(a) take account of such concerns and

(b) not overrule existing planning provisions

save where there is good, justifiable and stated reason not to so do.".

This amendment, particularly the term "stated reason", is very important. It is about consultation with local authorities, to which the Minister referred. It is important to include my provision at this juncture. We cannot erode democratic participation in vital decision-making that affects every citizen. Local and regional authorities and the various town councils have county development plans, regional plans, town plans and area plans in place. We cannot fly in the face of these and it is very important that their recommendations be taken on board. This is what my amendment is all about.

Public participation in the planning process is very important, including in respect of controversial projects concerning incineration, landfill sites, electricity pylons, etc. Many of the powers of elected representatives are being transferred to An Bord Pleanála under this legislation and thus Ministers will not have to take responsibility. It is important to ensure the process operates in a transparent, balanced and fair manner.

We are all citizens of the State and it is therefore important that we do not remove the input of the public into the planning process for major infrastructural projects. It is vital that citizens continue to have a say. Ireland is our land and I agree that we must pass it on intact. Individuals take decisions that affect people as a whole and politics is all about people. Sometimes people say all politicians are the same and that they, the people, have no regard for politics and no interest therein, but politics is ultimately about people. Councillors, who represent the voice of the people, have a right to be consulted. This amendment will ensure that the people are included and that their views are taken into account.

We cannot limit full public scrutiny. However, I am afraid this will be done if my amendment is not accepted and I therefore urge the Minister to take it on board. It proposes involving the public and consulting regional and local authorities. The authorities' plans exist for a purpose and apply for a specific period. We cannot jeopardise plans that have been put in place by those who represent the voice of the people, namely, the elected representatives.