National planning framework approval
Senator Boyhan sought clarity on whether the national planning framework must be approved by both Houses and asked for a ministerial statement before the Bill. A brief aside followed, then he repeated that the plan should not be launched without Oireachtas approval.
It is my understanding that the national planning framework must be approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas. There are differing views on this and I have spoken to several people about it. The matter was raised this morning at a meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Housing, Planning and Local Government. We were told that both Houses are required to approve this plan. This afternoon we will debate the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2016, which refers to the national planning framework and national planning regulation among other issues. It is important to get clarity on that. The Government has announced that it will launch this national plan in Sligo of all places. Hopefully there will be great news for Sligo.
Comment on this
That is right. It will be launched on Friday yet it has not been approved by the Houses of the Oireachtas. I am not critical of the national planning framework. I support it. There is a lot of good in it, but I ask the Leader to engage with the Minister who is coming into the House to deal with the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill later this afternoon. At the outset we might have a brief statement on the position from the Minister. Is there a requirement to place this plan before both Houses of the Oireachtas? We should not take the Members of the Oireachtas for granted. If that is the case, we need to do something about it but in the interest of clarity, I ask the Leader to organise for the Minister to make an opening statement on this particular matter when he comes to the House this afternoon.