'Disconnection between aspiration and output' - Waterford TD concerned about rural housing
"Disconnection between aspiration and output"- is how a Waterford TD described planning permission applications in Waterford.
Waterford Independent TD Matt Shanahan was commenting on the amount of rural housing planning permissions refused in Waterford. The Independent TD was questioning the Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien at leader's questions on Thursday last in the Dáil. He says planning permission remains difficult for those living in rural areas.
Matt Shanahan TD
"Minister I think there is often a disconnect between aspiration and output. I hear what you are saying about the economic conditions to deliver planning and one-off housing, but I'm not seeing it in my constituency.
"When I speak to my colleagues I can tell you there is a lot of difficulties out there for people, particularly in rural areas for securing planning permission be it for their children or people who are caring for them."
In response, minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien says the government did deliver on rural housing last year.
Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien
"In many instances Deputy I understand what you are saying where families and individuals would go and talk to their TDs or public representatives about planning. Issues arise and they haven't been able to get that planning and seeking advice from deputies and councillors. I am just stating the facts of the delivery in 2022 was over 5 and a half thousand individual rural homes."
Deputy Shanahan continued to press the minister regarding cases in Waterford and the discrepancies around them.
"You have mentioned yourself the need to try and absolutely reinvigorate and support our region, in particular, our rural populations. I have a myriad of planning cases not just in Waterford but outside and I just cannot see the justice or logic that is being applied to it. Sometimes I wonder if the planners despite what you are saying, have different guidelines.
"I think we do need to have reform of the planning law but we have to look at how we are supporting communities."
Future plans
Minister O'Brien responded saying, "There is no question that people will have well-held views regarding different planning authorities operating differently and that is why we are at the final stages of preparation for the updated rural housing guidelines.
"The Planning and Development Bill which I will bring forward very shortly in my initial response to you will also help streamline modern planning systems."
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