Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 161: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will review a matter (details supplied) regarding An Bord Pleanála; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12060/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The matter referred to in the question was endorsed by the Oireachtas in the context of the Planning and Development Act 2010 and is intended to enhance the efficiency with which the Board discharges its functions. The reduced quorum applies only in respect of certain cases. I have no plans at present to amend the quorum.

As indicated in the reply to question no. 464 of 14 February 2012 the statutory process of filling a number of the current vacancies on the Board is now underway and I expect to be in a position to make appointments shortly. When appointing new Board members I will be taking account of the balance of skill sets and expertise required for the effective discharge of An Bord Pleanála's complex and wide ranging functions. Appointees to the Board do not represent their nominating body but are appointed to provide, as a function of the Board, an independent consideration of planning authorities' decisions submitted to the Board on appeal, and to adjudicate on a number of other matters including strategic infrastructure areas.