Planning Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2013

Tuesday, 14 May 2013

Questions (748)

Michael McNamara

Question:

748. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he believes that the refusal of the National Roads Authority to engage in preplanning consultations with prospective applicants for planning permission on lands abutting national roads represents an efficient use of the resources of the NRA and local and national planning authorities in circumstances where the NRA frequently appeals the grant of planning permissions by local authorities to An Bórd Pleanala; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22772/13]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is very specifically a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply.  Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.