Desmond J. O'Malley
Question:65 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for the Environment the plans, if any, he has to amend the planning laws with a view to speeding up the planning process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1529/97]
Written Answers. - Planning Laws.
The planning and development code aims to strike an appropriate balance between the need, in the public interest, for full consideration of a planning application and the wish of the applicant for an early decision. Changes to the system under the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1992, have facilitated earlier decisions on planning applications and appeals, without diminution in the quality of consideration given to applications. The new national agreement, Partnership 2000 for Inclusion, Employment and Competitiveness indicates that further consideration will be given to streamlining the planning system in order to minimise delays and uncertainties, and to introducing accelerated procedures for major projects involving significant employment and added value.