The Law Society welcomes publication of the Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan and recognises that there is a clear and urgent need to accelerate the delivery of infrastructure in Ireland. We support the Government’s objectives of delivering a strong and stable economy that provides the homes that people need, high-quality public services, and the infrastructure required to sustain a growing society.

The Law Society also welcomes the wide-ranging recommendations outlined in the Report which demonstrate the broad collaboration that is needed to deliver the necessary infrastructure for Ireland’s growing population and economy. The Report seeks to balance competing rights and responsibilities which are essential in a modern democracy and open economy. The Report also shows a commitment to continuing to develop Irish legal, regulatory, and Governmental systems in order to protect people’s rights, promote transparency, protect the environment, and ensure that taxpayers’ money is not wasted. 

The Law Society believes that access to justice remains a core democratic principle in any reasonable society and that a robust planning process is good for everyone. Specifically, when used appropriately, judicial review serves an important role in ensuring accountability within the decision-making processes of public and private bodies. There are many examples in recent Irish history where challenging the decisions of the State, or State bodies, has not been popular but has demonstrated that the Irish legal system can deliver justice and is independent of government. It is important that any changes that may be introduced to the legal system and judicial review process are fair, balanced and proportionate. We will study the Report in more detail and look forward to engaging with Government.