Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 October 2004
388 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the concerns of the Irish Rural Dwellers Association regarding planning here (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26594/04]
View answerAn Bord Pleanála is a body established by statute under the Planning and Development Act 2000 which operates completely independently in performing its functions. Members are appointed on the basis of nominations from 37 bodies. An Bord Pleanála is required to make an independent determination of appeals on planning authorities' decisions. In dealing with an appeal, the board must consider all submissions on the file, together with the inspector's report and recommendation. The board reaches its own conclusion in each case, in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. The board must also have regard to ministerial policy and guidelines, including the recently published draft sustainable rural housing guidelines.
