The Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien has been urged to make public a report into conflicts of interest at An Bord Pleanala, which he's referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
A statement from the Minister says it would be inappropriate for him to comment further, and that it's now up to the D.P.P. to decide on whether it can be made public - and whether a criminal prosecution should be undertaken.
This report was conducted by barrister Remy Fleming, and it looked allegations of malpractice at An Bord Pleanála.
It investigated the management of conflicts of interest and relevant disclosures by the then Deputy Chairperson Paul Hyde, who has since resigned.
On the advice of the Attorney General the report was handed over to the D.P.P., the Gardai and the Standards in Public Office.
Calling for the report to be made public, Labour's housing spokesperson Rebecca Moynihan said it's critical that people have full confidence in the planning process. She claimed the independent report into An Bord Pleanála reveals deeper issues that must be addressed.
Senator Moynihan said:
“It is absolutely critical that people have full confidence in the planning process. It’s clear that the independent report into An Bord Pleanála reveals deeper issues and they must be addressed. I’m calling on the Minister to publish the report in full immediately and convene an Oireachtas debate upon its return in September.
“Transparency and fairness are the bedrock to any democracy and trust in the planning system is completely vital, and the public must be satisfied that the Minister will outline specific actions to address any systems failings. Labour has a long and proud history of encouraging transparency in the planning process. The public simply must be able to trust in the bona fides of Ireland’s independent planning body.
“This debacle has been characterised by a lack of clarity and drip feed of allegations regarding An Bord Pleanála is deeply concerning and demands serious government attention. This is a matter of public interest and must be addressed without delay.”
