A Dáil debate was held yesterday, 15 September, on the ongoing crisis at An Bord Pleanála after numerous revelations in the media reported conflicts of interest, improper decision-making and breaches of internal procedures at the planning body.
Since the reports have circulated, there has been three inquiries, one resignation, possible criminal proceedings, and no-confidence motions in a number of local authorities.
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Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin has called for urgent action and significant changes to address the issues surrounding An Bord Pleanála.
Deputy Ó Broin said: "Minister Darragh O'Brien must urgently act to restore public confidence in the work of An Bord Pleanála. This can only be achieved with a significant change of its membership.
"Responsibility starts at the top, and the Minister must be bold in doing what is necessary to restore public confidence in An Bord Pleanála's work.
"He must bring forward legislation to change the way in which its members are appointed and to strengthen its internal governance and adherence to procedures.
"We also need to see wider changes to the planning system including the repeal of the mandatory ministerial guidelines on apartment standards and building heights, adequate resourcing of An Bord Pleanála to ensure timely decisions, statutory timelines for decisions.
"We must also see a dedicated and resourced Planning and Environmental Court to ensure that legal challenges are dealt with in an appropriate time frame."
