Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

The reason I have asked the Parliamentary Counsel to do additional work is I am satisfied good points have been made in the House and I would like them to be teased out. I indicated I would address Senator Quinn's amendment which addressed a new issue.

An Bord Pleanála's 18-week compliance rate in 2008 was 23% and, with this measure, is expected to increase to 50%. Inspectors' reports are forwarded to board members. A total of 11% of cases are rejected by the board and, by and large, they are significant. A determination can be made by the chairman or vice chairman on whether cases are suitable for forwarding to a two-person board. If there is a conflict between the two members concerned, the case will revert to a board meeting comprising three members. The measure is designed to increase the efficiency of the board and meet the 18-week guideline, for which everybody is crying out. My Department and I have received strong representations about meeting the deadline. I would like the 18-week compliance rate to increase from 23% to 50% and, ultimately, 100%. The measure is proposed to effect this.