asked the Minister for the Environment if he will exclude community councils from the proposed charges in regard to objections to planning applications and appeals.
Written Answers . - Planning Application Fees .
520.
: The third party right of appeal is a feature of Irish planning law which is not found in most other countries. This system, and the practice of making submissions and observations in relation to planning applications, either at local or at appeals level, add to the cost of the planning control system, all of which had hitherto been met by the public at large through general taxation. The introduction of fees is designed to ensure that some contribution towards the cost is made by those who utilise the system in particular cases, and to encourage responsible use of the system. The level of fees involved is not prohibitive, particularly when viewed against the probable cost of alternative means of redress. I do not think there is need or justification for making a change on the lines suggested in the system of fees which has been introduced.