My Department has received correspondence relating to a number of allegations regarding certain matters in County Wicklow. An assessment and analysis have been carried out of the various allegations raised.
It should be noted that some of the matters raised in the correspondence have been the subject of previous reviews or investigative processes by a person with suitable expertise or an appropriate statutory body external to Wicklow County Council. In addition, some of the associated cases have, appropriately, been the subject of statutory appeals in relation to certain planning decisions.
I must also advise the Deputy that under Section 30 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, I am precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to any particular case with which a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála is or may be involved.
My Department will make a final submission to me of its findings and recommended course of action in relation to the various allegations in due course.