Appeal against President's planning permission fails

An Taisce and Friends of the Irish Environment have lost their appeal against President Mary McAleese’s plans to build a holiday home in a scenic area in Co Roscommon.

The President and her husband applied for planning to build the house in Cootehall last year and the application was granted by Roscommon County Council.

An Taisce and Friends of the Irish Environment appealed the decision, but An Bord Pleanala rejected that appeal today.

A spokesperson for the President said she is relieved and happy with the decision.