asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the undesirability of permitting the erection of licensed premises on main arterial roads; and if in view of the obvious traffic hazards implicit in such building he will direct local authorities to refuse permission for such projects.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Licensed Premises on Main Arterial Roads.
35.
Under the Town and Regional Planning Acts, planning authorities have power to refuse or grant permission for the erection of buildings or other structures. The granting of a licence under the Intoxicating Liquor Acts is, of course, a matter for the Courts.
Any person aggrieved by the refusal or grant of permission under the Town and Regional Planning Acts has the right of appeal to me and, accordingly, it would not be appropriate for me to issue a direction in the terms suggested by the Deputy.
Does the Minister not agree that with the increased need for road safety precautions, the building of licensed premises on such roads as the Bray Road or the Dundalk Road, or any main road, is highly undesirable?
Yes, but irrespective of whether I agree or disagree, it is for the local authority, in whose area such building may be proposed, either to agree or disagree in the first instance as to the plans submitted. It is only in relation to an appeal against such permission being granted or against a refusal to grant such permission that I come into it. My views one way or another do not really count.