asked the Minister for Local Government the number of town planning appeals awaiting decision in his office and when he expects to be in a position to deal with them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Town Planning Appeals.
67.
The number of planning appeals at present before me is 951, and these appeals will be dealt with as quickly as possible.
I am aware that the rapid increase in the number of new appeals received since the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963 came into operation and the increasing complexity of many of them has led to considerable delays in the clearance of appeals. All possible steps are being taken and will continue to be taken to reduce delays to a minimum.
Is the Minister aware that at present there is graft and corruption in relation to town planning? In many cases applications are judged according to political affiliation. Speculators are growing rich through graft and corruption. Is it the intention of the Minister to put an end to this undesirable practice which is growing up in this State at present?
If the Deputy would furnish me with the information that went into the making up of the statement he has just made, I would be very happy to do so.
I think the Minister knows all about some of them himself. There is no necessity for me to give him the information.
The Deputy can give the information if he has it. I would be glad to have it.
The Minister might be surprised at some of the people concerned in his own Party.
Give me the information. The Deputy will be doing a service to the House and to the country.