Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 June 2022
48. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when he was first informed about allegations of wrongdoing at An Bord Pleanála; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31795/22]
View answerMy Department first became aware of allegations in relation to An Bord Pleanála in parliamentary questions submitted on 7th April 2022 concerning board members' compliance with Section 106(13)(d)(ii) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
My office was subsequently copied into correspondence to An Bord Pleanála from Mr. Michael Smith on 14th April 2022 making specific allegations in relation to the Board’s Deputy Chairperson.
Senior Counsel Remy Farrell has been appointed to provide a report to inform the consideration of this matter. Terms of reference for the report were published on the 12 May 2022, and Mr. Farrell has been requested to provide a report to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage in accordance with these Terms of Reference within a period of 6 weeks from the 12 May 2022. Pending the completion of the Senior Counsel’s report it would be inappropriate to comment further.
