asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the inordinate delay in dealing with planning appeals by An Bord Pleanála; and if he has any plans to improve efficiency in the board.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Planning Appeals.
177.
I am not aware of inordinate delay by An Bord Pleanála in dealing with appeals. It will be appreciated that factors outside the control of the board affect the time taken in dealing with some appeals. These factors include delays in submitting grounds of appeal, requests that appeals be held in abeyance, awaiting documents from local authorities, circulation of documents, new issues arising and inadequate plans submitted with original applications.
As a result of a joint survey of An Bord Pleanála carried out by my Department and the Department of the Public Service, changes in administrative procedures have been put into operation since 1 October 1982, and it is expected that the new procedures will increase the board's capacity in processing appeals. The possibility of strengthening the board's inspectorate is also under active consideration.