I fully agree with the primary argument put forth by Fintan O’Toole in his editorial, “Lidl desires a MetroLink redesign to facilitate apartment construction. Who’s picking up the tab?” (Opinion & Analysis, March 19th) that Lidl’s push for a major overhaul of an infrastructure project worth billions of euro is driven by the developer-centric approach which characterised the developmental trajectory of our nation over a significant period. This, too, was a significant factor facilitating the rampant greed that permeated Irish society during the Celtic Tiger era and still exists today.
However, I believe O’Toole overstates his conclusion that the forthcoming Planning and Development Act will simply continue the status quo. Notably, this conclusion is based partly on the inclusion of the term “development” in the Act’s title. Development comprises all activities requiring planning permission, ranging from critical public infrastructure to private, profit-driven initiatives, and everything in between. Hence, it logically forms part of the title of our national planning legislation. The real issue is how to ensure the Act operates effectively.
The efficacy of the impending Planning and Development Act will largely depend on its ability to facilitate efficient execution of important approvals that contribute to the country and its citizens’ sustainable future over the coming years.
If the new Act fails to comprehensively tackle present shortcomings under various features, there seems to be very little advantage in replacing the current 2000 Act. Essential areas of consideration require:
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Guaranteeing that hierarchical supremacy, with regards to the country’s sustainable future, is upheld and prioritised throughout all legitimate stages culminating in final permission;
Incorporating comprehensive and precise provisions about what a genuine and adequately informative development proposal is and immediate dismissal for non-compliance;
Establishing a minimum threshold for frivolous or excessively self-centered objections or challenges, even those posed under the guise of environmental concern.
The importance of discouraging dishonest practices and rewarding those who identify such behaviours, along with the assurance of subsequent punishment, cannot be overlooked. Unfortunately, we have observed marked changes in our societal mindset over the past several decades. We have shifted away from a stance of tolerance and respect for differing viewpoints, and instead, have increasingly demonstrated behaviours of interference and selfishness. Although perceived by the minority, these attitudes have significantly hindered both the progression and reputation of our nation. The detrimental effects are evident in essential sectors, including our delay in adopting renewable energy sources, our inability to provide necessary housing, and the lacking development of key infrastructure among others.
Our planning laws must reclaim their role in dictating our nation’s future by promoting a resurfacing of a spirit of co-operation rather than division. We should be standing together to work towards common goals.
TOM TIERNAN,
Registered Engineer,
Ennis,
County Clare.