Planning Issues
Dail Éireann — 2026-01-22
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John Cummins (FG), Waterford

I note the Deputy's comments but, for the avoidance of doubt, unless there are explicit exemptions, the rules are the rules around planning. We have indicated our intention to bring forward this proposal. We have not set out the exact parameters of that. The current rules in regard to planning are the current rules until they are exempt. I indicated that to the joint Oireachtas committee when I was there before Christmas. As I said, this is a proactive and sensible proposal about providing options for people where they choose. Who is anybody in this Chamber or anywhere else to tell somebody that this is not an appropriate option for them if they choose to progress something? It is about removing red tape from the planning system so that planning authorities can actually deal with important planning applications and introduce flexibility and common sense to the planning system. That is what I am trying to do as Minister of State in the Department.

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Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:32+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-01-22