Ombudsman to focus on planning irregularities

THE Ombudsman is about to get tough on planning laws.

His office has warned local authorities that he will investigate all complaints about failures to enforce new legislation. This follows the revelation that Offaly County Council took three years to make a decision on an unauthorised quarry, and only refused permission after he had intervened.

"I also intend to monitor closely their effectiveness in application of the new legislation," said Kevin Murphy.