Ahern accused of rural pledge U-turn

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern was yesterday accused of making a U-turn on a pledge to ease planning restrictions in rural areas.

The Irish Rural Dwellers’ Association (IRDA) yesterday said Mr Ahern had turned his back on promises he made weeks ago.

The Taoiseach said on September 11 he would change planning policy that restricted development in designated zones, in or around towns and villages.