The introduction of a scale of fees is provided for in the Planning and Development Act 2024 (Part 9). They would be payable to successful applicants in certain environmental challenges before the courts.

This is one of a number of proposals in the Government’s Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan, published on 3 December 2025.

The Report and Action Plan also call for the enactment of the Civil Reform Bill. While the Law Society recognises that there is an urgent need to accelerate the delivery of infrastructure, any changes must be fair, balanced and proportionate.

The Law Society has consistently opposed proposals to introduce a scale of fees for many reasons – including the fact that they serve as a barrier to those seeking access to justice.

Your chance to contribute

If you wish to provide input to the Law Society’s submission on the Government’s scale of fees proposal, please send your feedback to the Law Society at policyteam@lawsociety.ie in advance of the submission deadline of 15 January.

For further information, including a list of guiding questions, visit the gov.ie website.