I raise the issue of rural planning. For over 20 years, I have worked in rural planning and sat through and made amendments to four county development plans. We need to do more to support people from rural areas to build a house in their local area. This is a contribution to the housing challenge. Unlike new houses elsewhere, there is no requirement for Government infrastructure or a cost to the State. The person pays for everything. A house in a rural area is not a blot on the landscape. It is part of the fabric of rural Ireland and adds to the social fabric of the area. We need national guidelines that reduce red tape and cost, involve better interaction with planners and support the principle of social or economic need reigning supreme over views and prospects.

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