Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I also call on the Minister to support and accept the amendment. It is a simple amendment, not one that forces the hand of or constrains the planning authority in any way. It simply adds an express reference to the elected members of the local authority where the legislation sets out that the planning authority may meet persons who have relevant information prior to the LRD meeting.

When we think of relevant information when it comes to planning, our councillors should be at the forefront of our minds. As Senator Boyhan pointed out, local ties, boots on the ground, the eyes and ears of the community and knowledge of the physical area and the social environment all serve to place our elected members in a prime position to contribute in an indispensable way to decisions made regarding planning in their areas. I hope the Minister will consider accepting the amendment.