We need a review of rural planning strategy in light of housing crisis

A Chara, I agree with Councillor Donal Grady’s assertion that an EU ruling could affect planning laws. In 2OO5 the Law Society of Ireland warned that local authorities discriminating in favour of family members over planning permissions for one-off rural housing were breaking EU law and the law reform committee of the society informed the Department of the Environment that positive planning discrimination in some cases breached the Irish Constitution and EU Laws.

In 2OO7 the EU wrote to the Department of the Environment asking it to show how its ‘local needs’ rules do not break several internal market rules and are not discriminatory and in breach of articles 43 and 56 of the EU Treaty which guarantee freedom of establishment and the free movement of capital.

In view of the current housing crisis in Ireland and Kerry it is timely that people in need of housing be allowed to move to the areas of their choice, whether it be urban or rural.

Fifty years ago young couples seeking to build their own homes could avail of a grant allocation from both the Department of The Environment and their local authority to assist them to build a home on their own site, to their own particular requirements. Perhaps some consideration could be given to restoring this incentive and to allowing young couples choose their place of residence, whether it be urban ur rural and one with suitable community facilities for their children. Sincerely, John Kelly, Irish Rural Dwellers Association, Coolcaslagh, Killarney.

Cllr Donal Grady