Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Senator Coffey has done a service to this House by his contribution regarding the planning code and its operation, transparency or otherwise. During the planning legislation debate I raised some of the same matters regarding An Bord Pleanála. I do not make specific criticisms but we have placed power in the hands of a very small number of people. That power impacts, not only on the environment but on individuals' rights and livelihoods and on communities and society in general. It is absolutely vital there should be transparency. The more I listen to people on the ground the more I realise a perception exists of considerable contradiction in some of the planning decisions handed down from time to time. This is not acceptable. Not only must we have a planning code which is beyond question in itself and its operation but it must also be clear to the public that decisions made are for the general good. This is particularly so in cases where legal judgments are handed down. It is imperative for anybody who has been involved in or at the receiving end of a legal judgment to ensure that what is required is implemented and the public is made aware of whatever action was taken. If we do not do this there will be no faith whatsoever in the code as it now applies.

During the Celtic tiger days there was enormous development in most areas. We have seen small villages develop beyond recognition. A way of life changed. We have seen the traditional values of planning that apply to Ireland not recognised. Some decisions that emerge are perhaps more appropriate to the planning code in Britain and other countries. We must discover behind this the number of planners who have been trained outside the country. There is nothing wrong with that. A number of non-nationals are involved and there is nothing wrong with that. However, what is important is that in addition to their academic training they should be made aware also of the traditional values of society and communities with regard to building and the expansion of communities. That also must be borne in mind.