Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 March 2026
177. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when Part 4 of the planning and development act 2024 will be commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17708/26]
View answerMy Department is continuing the process of bringing the Planning and Development Act 2024 (Act of 2024) into operation as expeditiously as possible on a phased basis. This is a task of considerable scale and complexity and continues to be based on the necessary engagement with local authorities, planning bodies and other key stakeholders in order to ensure there is adequate awareness and readiness throughout the commencement and implementation processes.
It should be noted that the existing provisions in the Planning and Development Act 2000 remain in place until repealed and the relevant provisions in the Act of 2024 have been brought into effect.
The commencement of Part 4 (Development Consent), as well as any remaining provisions of the Act of 2024, is being actioned as a priority for 2026. The General Scheme of the forthcoming Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2026 proposes amendments to expedite certain planning processes and to support the implementation and commencement of the Act of 2024. The Bill was announced 27 November 2025 with the general scheme published 14 January 2026. It is anticipated that the Bill will be enacted this summer and the commencement of Part 4 will follow shortly thereafter.
A detailed implementation plan, commencement schedule, circulars and a range of other useful resources are available to view at www.gov.ie/planning.
