Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 April 2022
89. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he is satisfied with the performance of all of the members of the Board of An Bord Pleanála; if he is satisfied that they have all satisfied their statutory requirements under ethics and planning legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21398/22]
View answerIn relation to the questions posed, I can inform the deputy that I am aware of allegations which have been made in relation to a Board member of An Bord Pleanála and understand that those allegations are denied by the Board member concerned. A Senior Counsel is being appointed to provide a report to inform my consideration of the matter.
I also understand that the Office of the Planning Regulator has independently written to the Chairperson of An Bord Pleanála requesting him to outline the systems and procedures that An Bord Pleanála has in place to ensure effective compliance with the statutory duties provided for in Section 147 and 148 of the Act, and any other information he considers relevant.
An Bord Pleanála is independent in the performance of its functions under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
Pending the outcome of these considerations, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further.
