Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the public inquiry was held about the next phase of the development of Dundonalds404W international ice bowl; when a decision is to be announced; and if he will make a statement about the efficiency of such public inquiries.
§ Mr. Tim SmithThe public inquiry was held before the Planning Appeals Commission from 5 January until 13 January 1993. Unfortunately, as the presiding commissioner was indisposed for a period following the close of the inquiry, the commission's report is not yet with the Department. I understand that the report should be submitted to the Department next month after which a decision will issue as soon as possible.
Planning inquiries are held to ensure that all representations are fully aired and considered in an open forum before a decision is made. I am content that this system provides a fair consideration of what are often complex planning issues.