Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I accept the intention of the section in terms of making efficiencies. If there are relatively minor appeals that can be easily dealt with, then three board members, when they meet, can deal with them swiftly. I am not convinced the reduction in the quorum will solve the issue of time delays in the process. There is always an odd number in committee, interview panel, etc., for one reason - that there will not be deadlock and a democratic decision is taken at every level. Will the two-quorum meeting model be so efficient? If there were a deadlock between two members, they will have to send it to a three-quorum meeting. I do not believe it will improve how An Bord Pleanála functions. It may be better to examine the wider issue of setting regulations for board member attendance for appeals and properly resourcing the board to carry out its remit.