Emergency legislation needed to drive through critical infrastructure – Geoghegan

Emergency legislation is needed to deliver critical infrastructure projects that are being delayed for years in the planning and judicial review process, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy James Geoghegan said: “Only last week, we learned that the Greater Dublin Drainage Project is now facing a judicial review, which could delay the project by more than two years. It has already been seven years in the planning system. In July, the Taoiseach earnestly asked the public not to object to this project. The time for pleas is over – the Government must use its power and change the law.”

Deputy Geoghegan highlighted that this was how major infrastructure was previously delivered in Ireland before the Oireachtas ceded power to the planning system.

“The Shannon Electricity Act, 1925 saw the Ardnacrusha plant built in just four years, providing up to 80% of Ireland’s electricity. Later projects like the Poulaphouca Reservoir were approved in the same way. Since 1963, however, decision-making has been handed over to the planning board and the courts. I believe we must return authority to the Oireachtas for crucial national projects.”

Deputy Geoghegan also pointed to international precedents:

“Many countries’ most important projects have been delivered through bespoke legislation. In the UK, the Channel Tunnel Act (1987) and Crossrail Act (2008) empowered delivery. The Tennessee Valley’s immense infrastructure was built this way. The same is true in Australia and Canada. Why shouldn’t we do the same when our need is so urgent?”

He concluded by noting that lessons could be drawn from abroad while ensuring compliance with EU regulations:

“Of course, EU rules must be respected, but there is much we can learn from Canada and Mark Carney’s recent One Canada Act. We should be bold and unapologetic about using the Oireachtas to deliver the infrastructure this country desperately needs.”

In response to questioning from Deputy Geoghegan in the Dáil, the Taoiseach confirmed that he has asked the Attorney General to consider “bespoke” legislation to ensure the Greater Dublin Drainage project proceeds, because the public interest is overwhelming.

“The Taoiseach said it is shocking and unacceptable that such a crucial project is being undermined in this way. I agree. It is past time we used the Oireachtas to deliver these projects. This Government has a mandate to deliver urgently needed infrastructure and housing. It is undemocratic and immoral that a small number of vested interests can delay projects at the expense of the whole country.”