Ruairí Quinn
Question:15 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government when he expects to publish the Government's spatial plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31122/01]
Written Answers. - National Spatial Strategy.
In early September, based on extensive research into development trends in Ireland and taking account of wide-ranging consultations which had taken place at national, regional and local level, I initiated a further process of public consultation to assist in finalising the national spatial strategy. To assist this consultation process, I published a public consultation paper, Indications for the Way Ahead, to stimulate the debate and encourage as many people as possible to give their views on how more balanced regional development can be achieved in Ireland.
This further phase in the consultation process recently concluded with around 245 submissions being received in my Department. All of these responses are being closely analysed and considered, in the course of the completion of proposals for inclusion in the strategy itself on which work is now well advanced. My Department expects to complete a full draft of the strategy by the end of the year and I intend that it will be submitted it to Government for consideration as soon as possible after that.