Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2022
210. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing; Local Government and Heritage the way that case files are allocated to board members of an Bord Pleanála; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25702/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn Bord Pleanála ('the Board') is independent in the performance of its functions under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Arrangements have been put in place by all bodies under the aegis of my Department to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. This provides a speedy, efficient and cost effective system to address queries directly to the relevant bodies. The contact email address for An Bord Pleanála in this regard is Oireachtasqueries@pleanala.ie.
The statutory powers regarding the distribution of the business of the Board are set out in Section 110 (Chairperson to ensure efficient discharge of business of Board, etc.) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Under section 30 of that Act, the Minister is specifically precluded from exercising power or control in relation to any particular case with which a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála is or may be concerned.
