Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

Many of the Senators' comments do not directly arise from the Bill. We are striving for the interpretation of planning law, to which Senators Bannon and Kitt referred. I am conscious of the changes in the interpretation of the guidelines for one-off rural housing. Like Senator Bannon, I am rightly anxious that planning law is reflected in the same way everywhere. There is clarity of language in the guidelines, but less than clarity in their interpretation. This misinterpretation frustrates LAMA, the councillors' association, AMAI and me. I have requested the relevant section of my Department to keep the matter under review.

An Bord Pleanála has taken the guidelines on board and since their introduction, there have been significant changes therein in the incidence of success of one-off appeals, suggesting the degree of the board's anxiety about making local authorities aware that not only will the letter of the rules be applied, but also their spirit. Nothing enriches a countryside as much as people. Senator Bannon shares my view that a countryside without people is effectively a desert.

A skewed debate is taking place. While that matter does not directly arise under this section, I assure the Senators that I will keep it under review. I will examine best practice in councils. If the Seanad wishes to discuss the guidelines and councillors' frustration in the autumn, I will happily attend the Chamber and listen to and take on board the views of Senators.