asked the Minister for Local Government if he will make a statement on the reasons for the delay in the determination of a town planning appeal by a person (details supplied) in respect of her premises at Western Road, Cork, which was lodged on 28th February, 1968, in respect of which plans were forwarded to his Department on 8th March, 1968, and architects' observations on 24th April, 1968; and if, in order to expedite decisions in this and similar cases, he will consider setting up an independent tribunal presided over by a judge to deal with such appeals.

There are a number of factors which affect the average time taken for the determination of planning appeals. Having regard to the numbers of appeals being received and the pressure on the skilled staff available, I do not think there has been undue delay in deciding the particular case mentioned. I have the appeal under consideration and I hope to make my decision shortly.

With regard to the second part of the question, the setting up of an independent tribunal presided over by a judge was proposed in a Private Members' Bill which was rejected by the Dáil early this year. I stated at the time in relation to this matter that I was opposed in principle to these particular proposals but that I would examine the possibility of providing some suitable alternative which might overcome the difficulties which I outlined. This matter is under active consideration.

23.

asked the Minister for Local Government if the present numerous delays in the determination of town planning appeals are caused by shortage of staff; and, if so, what steps he intends to take in the matter.

The shortage of suitably qualified technical staff is a factor which influences the length of time taken to determine planning appeals. There are at the moment, due to recruitment difficulties, five vacancies in the grade of planning inspector and a competition is currently being held by the Civil Service Commission to fill these vacancies.

Over the past two years, despite an increased intake of appeals, the average period for determination has been reduced considerably, especially in cases where an oral hearing is not required.

Could the Minister say what is the average length of time?

I do not know, but I would say it would be six or seven months. That is only a guess.

(Cavan): Arising out of the Minister's reply, could the Minister say the normal length of time between the oral hearing and the decision?

A fortnight to a month, I suppose.

(Cavan): If a case were heard last June or July you would expect that a decision should be available by now.

Yes, unless something particular arose.

(Cavan): Perhaps there were exceptional circumstances this year.

There could be exceptional circumstances, possibly, in relation to any particular case.

(Cavan): Possibly in relation to the Minister's activities. I thought he might not have had the time.

No. There is a lot of time.