Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 May 2022
161. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will confirm if the terms of reference for his review of the allegations of conflict of interest related to a member of An Bord Pleanála relate to all three sets of allegations now in the public domain; and if he will share the terms of reference for this review with the opposition spokespersons on housing. [22397/22]
View answerI am aware of the allegations which have been made and understand that those allegations are denied by the Board member concerned.
A Senior Counsel has been appointed to provide a report to inform my consideration of the matter. Terms of reference and timelines for this report are currently being finalised and it is my intention to publish the Terms of Reference.
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.
Pending the outcome of these considerations, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further.
