Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 77: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on the planning review of six local authorities and the expert panel that was to carry out this review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37422/10]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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My Department published a request for tenders on www.etenders.gov.ie on 24 September 2010 with a view to establishing a panel of independent experts to assist as necessary in the review of planning legislation, policy and guidance within the development plan and development management systems at local level. Issues raised with my Department across a number of planning authorities, and the authorities' responses to these issues, will be used as an input to the review.

The closing date for receipt of tenders is Friday, 22 October 2010. Following evaluation of the tender submissions received, I intend to appoint the panel of experts as quickly as possible and will seek to complete the review before the end of the year.