I am fully aware that An Bord Pleanála has, to an increased extent, not been able to meet its statutory objective to determine planning appeals within four months. The delay in disposing of appeals is due to the very substantial increase in the number of appeals coming before the board, reflecting the high level of activity in the national economy. My reply to Question No. 142 of 24 March 1999 outlined the various actions taken by my Department and the board to deal with delays and improve the time performance of the board. The board has assured me that it is taking all possible steps to speed up the staff recruitment process. In this regard, six additional consultants were appointed by the board last week. It is anticipated that five full-time planners will commence work with the board within the next six weeks. Interviews are scheduled over the next fortnight to recruit a further five additional full-time planners. Measures are also in place to fill administrative posts. It is a policy of the board to give priority to appeals relating to large scale residential – i.e. greater than 50 dwellings – and other major employment generating projects and the board has taken specific measures with a view to expediting such appeals. In consultation with the board, I will continue to keep the situation under review in the light of the trend in the volume of appeals and the board's performance.
