Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

We discussed this matter at some length on Committee Stage and it is a very interesting proposition. However, it is not one I have sympathy with for the simple reason that it would leave the particular Minister of the day open to all types of challenges as regards abuse of power etc. The amendment proposes to empower the Minister to give direction to the board to prioritise a particular application. As I explained on Committee Stage, the text as it stands allows the Minister to give directions to the board to prioritise a class or certain classes of infrastructure that may be of particular importance at a given time. However, I thought I was clear in asserting that I could not accept this amendment as it would be inappropriate for a Minister of the day to have the specific power to fast-track a particular application, which is what is being proposed. As Minister, I do not wish to have this additional power.

The existing powers to direct the board to expedite certain broad types of case are sufficient. If Ministers were to intervene in the manner the Senator is proposing, in individual planning applications, this would raise the possibility of charges of political interference. It might well be political interference for a positive reason, but it is far better that we avoid giving the Minister of the day power to make a direction in the form suggested in the amendment as regards individual cases. It is preferable that the Bill should give the Minister power to prioritise a certain class or classes and leave it at that. I ask Senator Bannon to withdraw the amendment. I do not think it would be wise to push it.