Vol. 566 No. 4
145 Ms Burton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the call made by the President of the Irish Planning Institute at the IPI conference in Limerick for legislative changes in regard to land rezoning to restore public trust in the system; his views on the suggestions made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12950/03]
I am aware of the recommendation referred to in the question.
My views on the appropriate exercise of zoning functions by local authorities were set out extensively in my contribution to the Dáil debate on the Flood tribunal report – Official Report, Vol. 554 No. 5.
It is essential to ensure openness, probity, fairness and efficiency in the operation of the planning system. This is being addressed at present through the progressive implementation of a series of reforms of planning procedures agreed by the Oireachtas in the Planning and Development Act 2000.
In addition, a comprehensive new ethics framework for local authority members and staff has been provided in the Local Government Act 2001 and came into operation on 1 January 2003. This framework will be further reinforced by separate statutory codes of conduct for staff and councillors of local authorities. These are currently being prepared and drafts will be available later this year.
I intend to maintain close attention to this matter in light of the need to ensure the integrity of, and confidence in, the Irish planning system.
