Environmental impact studies will not be hit under new planning bill, says minister

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O'Brien: 'We have to fully respect the need to protect our biodiversity.'

Environmental impact assessments will not be curtailed in the overhaul of Irish planning laws, the Housing Minister says.

Darragh O'Brien will bring the Consolidated Planning Bill to Cabinet on Wednesday, which represents a radical shift in Irish planning.