My attention has been drawn to a recent article in a Sunday newspaper, which is the report referred to by the Deputy. In so far as the question of new legislation is concerned, Deputies will be aware that the Government propose to bring forward proposals for the reorganisation and reform of local government and the matter is currently under active consideration. One of the matters which is being considered in this regard is the operation of aspects of the Planning Acts, including "section 4". The question of any legislative changes found necessary will be addressed in the context of the general reform of local government law which arises as part of the general reform of our local representative bodies.
In so far as conflict of interest occurs, Deputies will know that the planning code already requires the registration of interests by members of a planning authority, the failure of which is a punishable offence.
The development plan is the planning authority's policy document which guides planning decisions. I regret that the completion of the review of Dublin County Council's current plan is already two years overdue. My Department, by letter of 1 May 1990, conveyed my concern to the county council at the slow pace of the review. I am, however, confident that it will be completed within the permitted extended period up to 31 March 1991. While I have no proposals to meet the council, I will be monitoring the position and if considered necessary I will arrange a meeting with the council.