Written answers

Thursday, 3 November 2005

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government

Planning Issues

5:00 pm

Photo of Séamus KirkSéamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Question 312: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the concerns around the country that planning objectors are demanding compensation for the withdrawal of objections to planning applications; if the matter will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32270/05]

Photo of Dick RocheDick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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A planning applicant who is asked for money by any person in return for not objecting to, or withdrawing an objection to, a planning application should immediately report the matter to the Garda and the planning authority. It should be noted that An Bord Pleanála has, under section 138 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, an absolute discretion to dismiss an appeal where, having considered the grounds of appeal, it is of the opinion that it is made with the sole intention of delaying the development or of securing the payment of money, gifts, consideration or other inducement. Accordingly any developer who is asked for money in return for withdrawing an appeal to An Bord Pleanála should also inform the board of this.

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