Planning Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 July 2020

Tuesday, 28 July 2020

Questions (363)

Matt Carthy

Question:

363. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the action he plans to take to allow for effected parties to resume operations with regard to the Supreme Court ruling of 1 July 2020 striking down a provision under section 177 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 allowing for substitute consent; if he will provide each report, briefing and item of correspondence in relation to the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19059/20]

Written answers

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government

I am aware of the recent Supreme Court judgment to which the Question refers, concerning the leave to apply for substitute consent system under the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended and its compatibility with the EIA Directive. The judgment and its implications are currently being examined by my Department, which is working to ensure that any measures necessary to address the findings of the judgment will be brought forward as expeditiously as possible.

Discussions with the Office of the Attorney General are ongoing and, as I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, any correspondence or documentation on legal advice sought by my Department is legally privileged. Therefore, it would not be appropriate, in the circumstances, to disclose related material at this time.