asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the high number of section 4 resolutions on planning applications passed by Wicklow County Council; if he is satisfied with the position; and, if not, if he proposes to take any steps in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wicklow Planning Applications.
170.
I am aware of the position generally. All aspects of the planning control system are being reviewed in conjunction with my examination of the Local Government (Planning and Development) (No. 2) Bill, 1969.
Has the Minister any intention of doing anything about the position in Wicklow? Does he consider it necessary to do anything?
Where permission was granted under section 4 and where the development has gone ahead, the Deputy realises that there is nothing very much the Minister can do unless the local authority want to involve themselves in compensation. I would agree with the expression of concern here on the part of Deputy Paudge Brennan regarding the excessive use of section 4 by councillors in County Wicklow. I think future generations certainly shall not thank them for many of the decisions they are making, destroying much of the natural beauty of that lovely county. It is causing me some concern.
I have the recollection that there was a similar situation in Kerry some years ago and that the Department at that time took the matter up with the Kerry County Council. Since then we have had development plans. We have the situation now that there is a development plan for Wicklow, approved by the council. The council are constrained because of lack of co-operation from the officials and their complete disregard for the wishes of the council as expressed in the development plan. I know they are not irrevocable and can be appealed, but far too much time of the council is taken up with these resolutions. It might be a useful exercise if the Minister were to send officials to Wicklow County Council to have discussions with the council to see if something could be done.
Can the Minister indicate to the House the average number of planning applications refused in County Wicklow, and the average number refused throughout the country and also the percentage of appeals submitted to him by County Wicklow that were allowed and the percentage that were allowed throughout the country?
That would be a separate question.
It has a bearing on the general statement made by the Minister.
The Minister said that posterity would blame the councillors. He must have had some reason for making that statement.
They certainly will not thank them.
Can the Minister answer the question?
There has been no notice of that question.