Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is consistency in local area plans and county and city development plans in the context of zoning considerations, housing quality, design, open spaces and transportation. We might be getting into a tricky area if we add new criteria not contemplated in the planning laws to the planning application process and if we ask An Bord Pleanála to take new issues into account. We are legislating for a new system of decision-making, not changing the planning laws.