andMr. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Local Government if he will have regard to the strong objections of the residents of Ferndale Drive, Crumlin, Dublin, who have invested their savings in the purchase of their homes there, to the proposal to build a public house at the entrance to the road; and if he will state the present position in the matter
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Crumlin (Dublin) Public House Proposal.
48.
Mr. Ryan
I assume the Deputies' question refers to a town planning appeal received by me in relation to the proposed construction of a public house on a site at St. Mary's Road, Crumlin. Objections to this proposal were received from the Ferndale Residents Association and these objections were fully considered in connection with the appeal. I made an order on 6th April, 1964, granting planning permission for the construction of the premises, subject to certain conditions.
Mr. Ryan
Is the Minister aware that the people in Ferndale Drive were enticed to purchase their houses, that a plan was submitted to them showing that three private residences were to be erected on this plot? Many of those people, if they had known it was subsequently to be the site for a public house, would not have purchased their houses in that location. Having regard to that, would the Minister consider what steps should be taken to prevent builders and developers from enticing people to buy their houses, by submitting particular development plans and afterwards, when people are in the houses, going back on their undertakings and using them for commercial purposes?
I should possibly indicate that this planning permission which I granted, on appeal, is purely a planning permission for the construction of a particular building. The fact that it is intended to be used as a licensed premises has yet to be dealt with by the courts.
Mr. Ryan
The courts would not allow three private residences to be used as public houses. Is the Minister aware that the building has all the signs and shape of a public house, and that car parking and other facilities are provided. The Minister is easing the way——
It seems to me that the Deputy is anticipating the ruling of the courts.
Mr. Ryan
The Minister is opening the door.
Not at all; I did what I had to do.