Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 120: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to amend legislation in light of the recent review of An Bord Pleanála decisions by a company (details supplied) which found that there is a need for a clear direction from his Department regarding future residential developments in Dublin and other major cities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5267/06]

Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 194: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to amend the legislation in light of the recent report by a company (details supplied) which states that many of the decisions by An Bord Pleanála are completely at odds with Government housing policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5233/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 194 together.

The recent report referred to in the questions, comments on certain decisions by An Bord Pleanála to refuse permission for certain large apartment developments in Dublin and alleges that the board's decisions are contrary to Government policy on housing.

An Bord Pleanála is an independent body, with statutory functions provided for under the Planning and Development Act 2000. It is not, therefore, appropriate for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to comment on particular decisions made by the board. In terms of general policy, the board is required in making decisions to have regard to the 1999 residential density guidelines issued under section 28 of the Act. The board in performing its functions is also required to have regard to the policies and objectives of the Government, a State authority, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and certain other public authorities.

I launched a new housing policy framework, Building Sustainable Communities, in December 2005. This sets out an agenda for an integrated package of policy initiatives in areas such as supporting higher densities and promoting compact urban settlement through design innovation in new homes, new urban spaces and new neighbourhoods. My Department has commissioned a research study into apartment size and space standards which will inform revised planning guidelines on residential densities later this year. The updating of the guidelines will take account of the extensive experience built up since their introduction in the design, assessment and development of higher density proposals. Guidance will also be included on best practice mechanisms in the effective linkage of the development of new residential areas with the provision of wider social infrastructure such as schools and amenities.