asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the problems which have arisen at Hartstown, Clonsilla, Dublin 15, in relation to the enforcement of planning and development decisions in the enforcement of bonds by the local authority; if his attention has been drawn to the long delays in having housing estates in the area completed; if he can bring to an end such delays and ensure that they will not occur in the future; if not, if he will introduce new legislation to give himself and the local authorities the necessary powers; when such legislation is likely to be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Enforcement of Planning and Development Decisions.
240.
It is a matter for the planning authority to take all necessary steps to secure the completion of housing estates by attaching appropriate conditions to permissions including conditions regarding the necessary security, or bond, to ensure satisfactory completion. Since it is the responsibility of the planning authority to enforce the terms of a planning permission, I would not be notified by a planning authority of progress or action by them in relation to any particular housing estate. However, from inquiries made, I understand that the planning authority are continuing their efforts in relation to the estate referred to in the question.
The programme for Government envisages a number of improvements in planning law enforcement in relation to unfinished developments. Appropriate provisions in this regard will be included in the next general Bill to amend the planning laws.