Opponents of proposals to overhaul Ireland’s planning laws “need to calm it” and reserve judgement until the full legislation is published, according to Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
Concerns have be raised by the Opposition over proposals on how to reform An Bord Pleanála and other aspects of the legislation have caused tension within the Coalition.
Some Green Party TDs fear the changes will restrict the ability of residents’ associations and environmental groups to object to developments or bring judicial review cases in the courts.
Social Democrats co-leader Catherine Murphy has accused the Government of a “blatant and egregious political power grab” by giving Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien the power to appoint temporary members to An Bord Pleanála which is to be restructured and renamed as An Coimisiún Pleanála.
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Speaking on Friday to reporters in Brussels, where he attending a European Council summit, Mr Martin denied there was a “power grab”.
He said: “I think people need to calm it because the issue here is do we want a planning system that’s fit for purpose for the 21st century, or do we not?
“Do we want to challenge climate change or do we not? I’m clear we will not be in a position to meet our climate change objectives if this planning bill doesn’t go through.”
He said the existing planning framework will not suffice to ensure the progression of infrastructure projects like offshore wind in the timelines necessary for Ireland’s climate action plans. “Likewise... we do need to accelerate the process in terms of housing,” he added.
Mr Martin said the focus of the proposed legislation “isn’t on refusing access to justice. I would say to people to hold judgment, to read the bill when it is published in its entirety.”
He said the legislation “really prioritises the importance of planning at local level” and offers “fundamental reform” of An Bord Pleanála.
Mr Martin insisted the legislation allows access to justice. “In fact, it improves access through the cost regime that’s going to be introduced which will say to people: ‘you will not be taking on a risk if you go down the judicial route. There will be a cost regime there for you.’”
Mr Martin said the legislation will not be rushed and there will be “plenty of time” allocated to examining it in full detail.
“The genuine motivation is to make for a more streamlined, professional planning system,” Mr Martin said adding that ultimately if there are high volumes of judicial review cases it is a signal of the failure of the planning system.
“Ideally, your local authority planning system ... should be the vehicle for the vast, vast majority of issues.
“If that is not the case, well then that’s sending a signal to you that your system isn’t optimal and that’s really what’s at the heart of this legislation.”
