asked the Minister for Local Government if he will ensure that all future planning permissions for supermarkets or shopping complexes will provide for facilities such as public toilets and parking places for prams and babysitting facilities for mothers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supermarket Facilities.
51.
It is primarily for the developer in the first instance to consider what is required in the case of an individual project and for the local planning authority then to consider the matter when planning permission is sought. No doubt the planning authority would take into account the size of the proposed development and its location in relation to housing areas. I do not think it would be appropriate that requirements of the type suggested should be imposed generally nor do I have any statutory power to ensure that they would be imposed.
Is the Minister aware that in most supermarket complexes, especially in Dublin, there are no toilet facilities? If people wish to avail of these facilities they must adjourn to the local public house. This is not a very good idea.
I am not so aware. I do not do any shopping in supermarkets so I cannot offer a comment. I thought they had everything, even churches, in supermarkets now.
Would the Minister not make it a condition of planning approval that such amenities would be provided?
I will consider that. It might be a good idea, the same as car parking.