Planning Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018

Tuesday, 24 July 2018

Ceisteanna (2667)

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

2667. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if he will consider using the new powers available under the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2016 to revoke a planning permission in the case of An Bord Pleanála's recent decision to grant permission to a company (details supplied) for an incinerator in Ringaskiddy, County Cork in view of the submission made by the Department of Defence during the planning process regarding the impact the development would have on the operation of the Naval Service headquarters at Haulbowline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33442/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government

While the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2016 was signed into law by the President on 19 July 2018, the relevant provision which amends section 44 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, has yet to be commenced and therefore these powers are not yet available to be used.

Notwithstanding the matter and timing of commencement, the Deputy should note that the newly inserted section 44A will require that the Minister may only consider making an order revoking or modifying a grant of planning permission upon the request of the Minister for Justice & Equality, the Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade or the Minister for Defence and with the approval of the Government. Furthermore, the Minister must be satisfied that the carrying out of the development, to which the grant of permission relates, is likely to be harmful to the security or defence of the State, or the State’s relations with other states, and the revocation or modification concerned is necessary in the public interest.