asked the Minister for Local Government the general policy directives in relation to planning and development which he issued to An Bord Pleanála.

I have issued no such general policy directives to the board.

Is the Minister's intention to issue policy directives under the new planning law?

Section 6 of the Act requires the Minister from time to time to give such general policy directives to the board as he considers necessary but precludes him from exercising any power or control in relation to any particular appeal or other case coming before the board. Any directive given must be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas and published in Iris Oifigiúil and copies sent to each planning authority.

Does the Minister not consider it necessary to issue a general directive?

When I consider it necessary I will say so.