Pat O'Neill (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand the sentiment that underpins Senator Barrett's amendment. All public representatives, and indeed the public, are often aware that frivolous appeals are being made. This is particularly true with regard to An Bord Pleanála. We have a rule in this country that the polluter pays, but that does not seem to apply when people make frivolous appeals to An Bord Pleanála about planning permissions in which they have no interest. It has often been said that these costs should be borne by those who make such appeals. I understand the idea behind Senator Barrett's amendment. I will listen with interest to the Minister's reply. I would also like Senator Barrett to set out who will determine what the costs will be if it is to be permissible for costs to be granted to the parking controller in cases of frivolous appeals. Who will make the decision on what payment should be made?