Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank most Members for their support for the amendment. Senator Higgins is incorrect in that it is consistent with the Planning and Development Act. Sections 9 and 11 deal with the extension of development plans currently. They have been extended by a number of local authorities by agreement of a majority of the members. We are not conflating it with variations or other such types of vote. We are being consistent. The Attorney General is in agreement with that and backed up this request as well, so there is no issue. This is not a delay. It is giving local authorities that may need an opportunity to have more time to complete vital and key public consultation while preparing their plan. I wish to be very clear that it is not a delay or a pause.