Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Ruane. This is one that we discussed at length on Committee Stage. My position has not changed. It is considered that these amendments would be overly prescriptive. We are changing it now to improve it from 15% to 30% but the intent is to allow the discretion with the local authority. I do not have to advise Senators that we had an extensive debate on Committee Stage when there was lots of really good interaction. This is about restoring planning to local authorities. If we are restoring it to local authorities, we need to allow them and the planners to make those decisions. I believe that up to 30% is the correct balance to strike. We want brownfield development and mixed development, particularly within our cities where there has been a massive issue with regard to viability. I thank the Senator for tabling the amendment but I have not changed my position and will not be accepting it.