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

We have discussed this point at some length. I am opposing this amendment because it effectively adds an additional level of consultation to the LRD process and what we are doing, effectively, in this legislation is to allow for proper consultation. Bringing planning back to local authorities means that residents or any interested groups will be able to make their observations at the first stage and will not have to wait until an application goes to An Bord Pleanála. The current situation partially accounted for why we have seen an increase in judicial reviews, because groups and interested parties felt they did not have a say during the initial stage. This proposed amendment seeks to add another layer to the consultation process, but we have greatly improved that aspect already in this legislation. I am, therefore, opposing the amendment.