The news that the Government is considering the introduction of a fast-track planning division in the High Court has been broadly welcomed by environmental groups and builders.
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, confirmed yesterday that such a division, aimed at preventing long delays in the implementation of major infra structural projects, was being considered.
In the Dail Mr Ahern said it was "one of a number of matters being considered by the Government on how to speed up the infrastructural projects announced in the national plan".
The decision was greeted positively by the Green Party TD, Mr John Gormley, who said it was better for all concerned if planning matters were speeded up. However, a lot of delay was caused because EU directives regarding large works had been ignored.
The chairman of An Taisce, Mr Michael Smith, said it was desirable for all parties for planning to be expedited. An Taisce welcomed the move, he said, but had problems with measures that "undemocratically disenfranchised third-party observers" such as the provision in the current planning Bill to impose a fee on objectors to developments.
The Irish Home Builders' Association also welcomed the initiative, saying the current system could be interpreted as undemocratic because it was so overloaded.