Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

In relation to the subject of the chief planning officer, I thank the Minister of State for his considered approach. All we are attempting to do here is stimulate debate. It is important. We heard about the idea of a chief planning officer in the joint committee. Clearly, there are other issues to be considered. The Minister of State touched on the Local Government Act 2001. I understand and am sympathetic to that point. I am also conscious of the role of a chief executive in local authorities as set down in legislation. I welcome the Minister of State's favourable response to the idea of looking at this idea again. He has special responsibility for local government and I know he will not be found wanting.

This proposal makes absolute sense. The Minister of State is correct that the directors of services have broad competencies but I am not aware of any local authority that has a director or chief of finance who has no knowledge or experience of that area or of any law agent or director of legal issues who would not be a professional lawyer or not have experience in this area. Planning is such a big issue now that it requires the expertise and leadership of someone with the requisite experience. Having a chief planning officer in a county or a city would help to bridge many of the misunderstandings and communication issues that arise in relation to the bigger role of economic planning and sustainable development. It would also be a great advantage to the elected members of the local authorities. It would be good to have such a chief planning officer in each city and county council area. I thank the Minister of State for his response.