Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 341: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, arising from his previously expressed views in this regard, his attention has been drawn to the concerns of some rural communities arising from the decisions made by a number of local authorities to refuse planning permission to the indigenous population thereby likely to cause rural depopulation; if he has had discussions with his Ministerial colleagues with a view to addressing this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33850/08]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The question of planning permission is primarily a matter for local authorities and these operate under guidelines and legislation prepared by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

I am cognisant however, of the concerns of some rural communities regarding the issues around the granting of planning permission.

I believe that balanced physical planning is crucial and it is to ensure this balance that the National Spatial Strategy clearly sets out the principals on which one-off houses should be granted in the countryside. It clearly articulates the right of those, with a connection to the countryside by way of background or by way of employment, to live and be granted planning permission in rural Ireland. On the other hand the National Spatial Strategy, particularly in areas under urban pressures, sets its face squarely against the explosion of urban generated housing.