The decision by An Bord Pleanála on a municipal and hazardous waste incinerator in Ringaskiddy has been deferred now for the third time. In the context of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2016, does the Government intend to address repeated deferrals of decisions? In this case, the Department of Defence has lodged its own objection because an incinerator at the location in question would impair the usability of the naval base or naval headquarters and could, under certain circumstances, cause it to be closed. There is now growing concern that An Bord Pleanála is preparing the ground to grant permission, which would be devastating for the local community. I am interested in hearing what the Taoiseach has to say.

I am not sure whether Deputy Michael McGrath is asking for a change in the legislation that would allow for deferrals or whether he is asking for a change that would not allow for them. Clearly, An Bord Pleanála is completely independent in the way it goes about its business, with decisions eventually being made by courts and judicial reviews, if necessary. I am not aware of the reasons for the deferrals in each case but I will have the matter examined and perhaps have the Minister advise the Deputy if I can.