Bacik demands debate on An Bord Pleanála

Labour leader Ivana Bacik has called for a debate regarding serious allegations about An Bord Pleanála. Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Bacik said the drip feed of information is unacceptable. With summer recess approaching, the Labour Party is calling for a Dáil debate on this crucial matter.

Deputy Bacik said:

“The lack of clarity and drip feed of allegations regarding An Bord Pleanála is deeply concerning and demands serious government attention. In order to restore public confidence in the planning process, we in Labour are demanding a debate into the operation of An Bord Pleanála before the summer recess. People rightly expect openness and fairness in the planning decisions. Allegations that due process is not being followed are deeply concerning and must be addressed.

“Labour has a long and proud history of encouraging transparency in the planning process. The public simply must be able to trust in the bona fides of Ireland’s independent planning body. Allegations about conflicts of interest are of deep concern and therefore we are calling on government to take this issue seriously by facilitating an urgent debate this week.

“Transparency and accountability are vital in the planning process. Rather than hiding away from the issue, I am reiterating Labour’s call to government to do the right thing and open the issue to debate in the Dáil. This is a matter of public interest and must be addressed without delay.”