Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

To recap, I made my argument for an independent review. Surely there would be no problem with having an independent review. The Minister has clearly said it is a temporary arrangement and we know that he has the power to extend the date. I am not trying to curtail his extension of the period to five years or whatever other period he would have in mind; I am simply suggesting there be an independent review. I am not suggesting it be a departmental review but a meaningful review that would allow the Minister, his officials in the Department, An Bord Pleanála and members of all parties and none to contribute. The Minister has repeatedly said that when the matter is discussed at various fora there will be a learning curve and teething problems and that we will have to iron out bits and pieces. There will be hiccups because, by its very nature, it is something that is new. It would, therefore, be fair and reasonable for him to agree to have an independent review that would add strength. I reiterate that people should feel involved in the process and they would feel involved if the Minister was to indicate that he was happy to have an independent review. I hope he will agree to same.