asked the Minister for Local Government if he has taken any further steps to control the erection of unsightly hoardings throughout the countryside.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unsightly Hoardings.
22.
This is one of a number of matters relating to the preservation and improvement of amenities which are being examined at present with a view to the preparation of amending legislation.
Could the Minister give any indication as to when it will be introduced?
It would be rather difficult to say when it will be introduced, but I can tell the House and the Deputy that such legislation is being considered by my Department. How long it may take is another matter and I would not like to commit myself. However, we hope to have it as soon as possible.
Is it possible to prevent it under Town Planning?
It is really devolving itself into a new Planning Bill and this is one of the related matters. That is what we have under consideration at the moment. I am afraid I cannot say when.
Is the Minister not aware that the erection of these unsightly hoardings is going on apace? Having regard to the necessity for preserving the amenities and beauties of the countryside, would he not introduce some specific legislation to deal with this problem? Otherwise they will become more numerous on the roads.
It was our intention to have separate legislation to deal with this problem, but because there are a number of other related matters and because of the fact that on examination we found we should be in a position soon to introduce an over-all Bill to cover all these matters, we decided against proceeding with the separate legislation.
The Minister mentioned the Bill would be before the House soon. Would he say that would be before the end of the year?
That question was asked two years ago.
I think the Minister should answer that question. I asked this question three years ago and nothing has appeared since.
The Deputy can hardly blame the Minister for that.
Who else but the Minister can be blamed for it?