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

This amendment seeks to insert a provision that provides for the laying of a report by the Minister before both Houses following the introduction of these proposed legislative amendments. Specifically, amendment No. 14 seeks to impose a ministerial obligation to lay a report before both Houses of the Oireachtas within 18 months of the passing of this Act, outlining data on substitute consent applications received and-or granted, any impacts identified in respect of other planning applications, and the relevant exceptional circumstance in respect of each successful application.

While I understand the intention behind the proposed amendment, I am opposing amendment No. 14, as existing planning reporting arrangements are already in place that are robust and fit for purpose. All planning decisions and related information are published promptly to the website of An Bord Pleanála, including any considerations of exceptionality by the board, and additionally, specific arrangements are in place to allow Members of both Houses to make direct inquiries of the board in relation to substitute consent planning matters. For the reasons just outlined, I must oppose amendment No. 14.