Rural voters giving politicians ‘stick’

POLITICIANS canvassing for votes in the general election are getting plenty of ‘stick’ on the doorsteps from people experiencing difficulties in obtaining planning permission in rural areas, a planning conference heard.

Acting IRDA secretary Jim Connolly said people were now afraid of the planning system and of An Taisce, in particular.

An Taisce came under sustained attack and the Government was accused of hiding behind it.