Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

I am not changing the powers of regional authorities. There is no provision in the Bill to do this. Local development plans must take into consideration regional planning guidelines.

As for the national spatial strategy, there was extensive national consultation. Even small areas had an input into it. It was a very long process. I do not know if there is a single stakeholder in the country who did not have an input.