Tony Gregory
Question:411 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government his plans to continue with the ?20 planning objections fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6107/03]
Written Answers - Planning Regulations.
On 23 January 2003, the European Commission issued Ireland with a reasoned opinion to the effect that the €20 fee for the making of a submission on a planning application is contrary to the public participation provisions of Directive 85/337/EEC on environmental impact assessment. A reply is being prepared in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General with a view to responding to the Commission within the two month deadline. In the meantime, there is no proposal to amend the relevant regulations.