They say it is better to light a candle than curse the dark. We have a housing crisis and a crisis in the provision of a lot of other facilities. One thing adding to the crisis is the phenomenal delays still in getting decisions from An Bord Pleanála. I have cases that have been with the board for over a year and a half. These are all projects which, if approved, could go ahead. I know extra staff were approved but I am wondering about two things. First, what extra short-term steps could be taken to clear this backlog forthwith under the present legislation? Second, when is it hoped the new legislation setting up an coimisiún pleanála will be fully operational and in place? We need radical change here, and that would free up a lot of planning decisions that would potentially provide a lot of accommodation in the State.

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I accept what Deputy Ó Cuív said. The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage has taken urgent measures to bolster the capacity and strength of An Bord Pleanála in the form of a number of new officers appointed. Quite a substantial number have now been approved, for good reason. Reform of An Bord Pleanála is ongoing, and there is the new planning Act. I think we are subject to the House in getting that passed. We should make a collective effort in the House to get that legislation passed because it is essential. There are quite a number of projects on the housing front and in the public realm in respect of transport and climate, including wind farms, that we need to get progressed more quickly than currently is the position.