Planning regulator on the cards after Mahon findings

The Government is to outline proposals for a planning tsar on recommendations from the damning Mahon Tribunal report.

Housing minister Jan O’Sullivan said she would outline her idea for a planning regulator to the Oireachtas Committee on the Environment when TDs return to Leinster House in September.

But questions remain on what role such a regulator will play and what their connection will be with An Bord Pleanála or the minister, she said.

“I intend to bring forward a comprehensive plan for an independent planning regulator but it is important not only that we address this crucial issue but that we do it right,” Ms O’Sullivan added.

Her comments came as government ministers released details of their responses to recommendations from the Mahon Tribunal inquiry.

Environment Minister Phil Hogan said that 29 of the 64 recommendations had been partly or fully implemented. Another 14 are still to be implemented while 18 are still under consideration. Only three will not be implemented.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter said: “I assure the House that where the Garda Síochána has evidence of wrongdoing it will be fully pursued.”

Fianna Fáil TD Niall Collins claimed Mr Hogan failed to investigate recent claims of irregularities in seven local authorities.

Mr Collins said Mr Hogan was not dealing with concerns about planning in Wicklow: “There are several issues under contention in Wicklow, one of which reached a settlement in the High Court that will potentially expose the State for up to €60m. I understand several investigation files have gone missing [from Hogan’s department], including one referred to as the Ballybeg file.”

The minister said that a senior counsel was investigating this matter on behalf of the department.