Mick Clifford: No entity should escape public scrutiny — including An Bord Pleanála

Controversy lingers over a potential conflict of interest in a Cork site by An Bord Pleanála deputy chairman Paul Hyde

Plans for the proposed Distillery Quarter in Blackpool, involving the conversion of former distillery building Hewitt’s Mill into apartments, and the construction of two nine-storey apartment blocks, was rejected by An Bord Pleanála.

The members of An Bord Pleanála wield huge power and carry major responsibility. Their decisions impact thousands across the State, and they are only accountable, to a certain extent, through the superior courts.

So when an allegation about a conflict of interest arises, it needs to be taken very seriously. Unfortunately, such an allegation has arisen, and so far, many people are simply looking the other way.