Michael Kitt (Fianna Fail)

I very much welcome the inclusion of the environment in this group of amendments. As well as sustainable development, about which Senator Brady spoke, the phrase about proper planning is very important. Senator Bannon referred earlier to the issue of one-off houses. I am sure all of us, including the Minister, are aware of a point made by Senator Bannon regarding different interpretations of proper planning and sustainable development in different counties and local authorities. In respect of interpretation, the question arises as to what is local. Does it mean a parish, school catchment area or certain mileage from one's home? I was never satisfied on this issue when I was a member of Galway County Council or when I dealt with the council as a Member of the Oireachtas.

There seems to be a ban on people from outside a county entering it, which is wrong and unfair. For example, people could rent a house for 15 years or 20 years, but they would still not be regarded as local. Trying to find an intrinsic link, which is the great phrase of planners, can be difficult if one is not regarded as local after renting a house for that period and being involved in the community. This matter should be examined and I hope that the local authorities reach agreement on the definition of "local". I welcome the amendments and thank the Minister for accepting my point.