Local Authority Functions

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 March 2021

Thursday, 4 March 2021

Questions (80, 83)

Darren O'Rourke

Question:

80. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if there has been an update to the 1987 Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government document A Policy for the Provision and Maintenance of Parks, Open Spaces and Outdoor Recreation Areas by Local Authorities; if not, if this remains the only national advice specifically for local authorities providing for parks, open spaces and outdoor recreational activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12411/21]

Darren O'Rourke

Question:

83. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if it is still the case that guidance (details supplied) applies in terms of green space provision in urban areas. [12414/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 83 together.

The 1987 guidance on the Provision and Maintenance of Parks, Open Space and Outdoor Recreation Areas by Local Authorities has not been updated by virtue of the fact that it has been superseded by provisions in the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended (the 2000 Act).

In terms of new planning developments, Section 10(2)(j) of the 2000 Act provides that a local authority, in making their county development plan, shall include objectives for the preservation, improvement and extension of amenities and recreational amenities.

More generally, in terms of existing developments, Section 67 of the Local Government Act 2001 is the primary legislative, statutory and regulatory framework for the provision of public green space. This provides that a local authority may take measures or engage in activities that it considers necessary to promote the interests of the local community in relation to matters such as general recreational and leisure activities, including the provision of parks and open spaces.