Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support these amendments. I note the discussion on my previous comments regarding the importance of planning, the independence of our planning structures and the Oireachtas not being overly prescriptive. By the same token, whatever about the Oireachtas being overly prescriptive, it would certainly not be appropriate for the Minister to be able to override, through these guidelines, hard planning decisions. We have seen the ministerial guidelines on height being used to make decisions that go against the collective and agreed will of the people who live in a place, through their local authority.

There are other concerns. I sit on the Joint Committee on Disability Matters. We are on a slow journey towards any improvement in Part M of the building regulations in respect of disability access, whereas speedy decisions were taken to lower standards for build-to-rent developments. These regulations have contributed to the delay in projects. Those who had planning permission saw they could get better value from their investment by having lower standards, such as smaller rooms and buildings. There have been negative consequences from the kinds of guidelines addressed by amendment No. 6.

I reserve the right to table amendments if there are ministerial guidelines. I have opinions on the kinds of areas these should cover. A very valid argument is being put forward by Sinn Féin on the appropriateness of such guidelines.