The Government are preparing emergency legislation that would allow certain major infrastructure projects to bypass parts of the standard planning process.
Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers confirmed that work is underway on proposals that would enable the State to “circumvent some of the decision-making processes” for critical infrastructure. He said any project seeking to use these powers would need to meet a higher legal threshold.
Chambers argued the measure is necessary to accelerate delivery, saying the Government needs the option available “because people want to see us get things done” amid record levels of capital investment. The legislation is expected to be drafted in the autumn.
This proposal would operate separately from the existing Critical Infrastructure Bill. Under that framework, selected projects are prioritised within the planning system rather than exempted from it.
Chambers made the comments while announcing the first nine projects to receive critical infrastructure designation, including the Cork Commuter Rail upgrade. State agencies will now be directed to prioritise these projects, with the aim of improving delivery timelines.
He also noted that delays are not limited to planning permission, pointing out that other statutory approvals, such as licences, can take months. Under the new approach, agencies will be required to process such approvals in parallel instead of sequentially.
A Government source indicated that the proposed Cork Luas could also qualify for critical infrastructure designation in future. Other projects already designated include MetroLink, the Galway City Ring Road, the Greater Dublin Drainage Project, and the Water Supply Project for the Eastern and Midlands Region.
Chambers said further projects will be designated every two to three months, stressing that only those capable of delivering clear public benefits will be selected. He added that the approach will improve oversight and ensure resources are focused on priority infrastructure.