Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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Directive (EU) 2023/2413 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 Oct 2023, known as the Renewable Energy Directive III ('RED III') for the promotion of energy from renewable sources, entered into force in November 2023. RED III amends Directive (EU) 2018/2001, Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 and Directive 98/70/EC and repeals Council Directive (EU) 2015/652.

The Department of Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) is the lead Department with overall responsibility for ensuring transposition of this Directive. The planning system will play an important role in ensuring the Renewable Energy Directive III is comprehensively transposed and implemented. On that basis, my Department is working closely with colleagues in DECC on transposition measures as appropriate.

Article 16a of the Directive provides for renewable acceleration areas and providing for such areas will likely require amendments to planning law. My Department is working closely with colleagues in DECC on these provisions in order to meeting the deadline for transposition of this Article, which is 21 May 2025.

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 requires private developers to ensure that a specified percentage of land zoned for residential and other uses is reserved for social and affordable housing. Local authorities negotiate Part V agreements with the developer in line with a range of guidelines and supports aimed at assisting them in maximising the benefits of Part V in the context of its housing needs.

The making of Part V agreements with developers, which include acquisitions and leasing arrangements, is an executive function.