Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Apr 2001

Vol. 534 No. 1

Written Answers. - Planning Applications.

Thomas Gildea

Question:

188 Mr. Gildea asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands if, with regard to the proposed social housing development at Drinnasillagh, Glenties, County Donegal, Dúchas had an input into the planning procedure of Donegal County Council regarding the proposed building development; and, if not, the reason therefor; the input Dúchas has had into the separate planning application for a waste water treatment plant for the proposed development; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10106/01]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera)

As the Deputy will be aware, the granting of planning permission is a matter for planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála, which may seek advice from Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department, pertaining to matters of architecture, archaeology or natural heritage. The planning authority in the case referred to by the Deputy, Donegal County Council, has advised my Department that the proposed development is the subject of one application made to it in November 2000. In January 2001, further information was requested from the applicant covering a number of matters, including effluent treatment, and a decision on the proposed development cannot be made until the planning authority receives this information. The planning authority did not initially refer the planning application to my Department. However, my Department became aware of it and asked the planning authority for a copy of it. This was received last month. The proposed development is being assessed by my Department and a sub mission will be forwarded to the planning authority in due course.