IPI Planners Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Ireland’s planning system is undergoing a major transformation, but with a 906-page Planning and Development Act 2024, navigating these changes can feel overwhelming. 

This episode breaks down the complexities and explores what the future holds for planning in Ireland. We examine the most significant updates, including streamlined development management, revised exempted development regulations, and the introduction of a Planning Commissioner. We also discuss the evolving role of Strategic Development Zones and Urban Development Zones, as well as the crucial resourcing challenges in the sector. 

Our expert guest has over 30 years’ experience in planning and development and has played a central role in shaping Ireland’s planning framework. Joining us is Assistant Secretary in the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, Paul Hogan.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

• Overhauling Ireland’s planning system to modernize and streamline
• Key legislative changes and their impact 
• Strategic Development and Urban Development Zones 
• Judicial reviews, governance, and planning oversight
• Resourcing the future of planning through recruitment, training and technology

GUEST DETAILS

Paul Hogan has been Head of the Planning Division at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage since January 2023. He has more than 30 years’ experience of working in planning and development in Ireland and the UK.

The Planning Division’s key responsibility is to ensure that the appropriate strategic policy and legislative planning framework is in place to promote sustainable economic growth and balanced regional development, while ensuring environmental protection.

His previous roles at the Department of Housing include Principal Adviser and Senior Adviser. Prior to joining the Department in 2015, Paul was Senior Planner at South Dublin County Council for more than 10 years. While there he led the development of the Adamstown Strategic Development Zone and also initiated the development of the Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (DMURS).

Paul previously worked in local Government at Kildare and Meath County Councils and in private sector consultancy for 5 years, both in Ireland and the UK. He has a Master of Regional and Urban Planning degree from UCD (1992) and recently completed a higher diploma in Organisational Change and Transformation, also at UCD. He is a Fellow of the Irish Planning Institute.

https://ie.linkedin.com/in/paul-hogan-737673253

MORE INFORMATION

Find out more at ipi.ie

 
IPI Planners Podcast is produced by DustPod.io

QUOTES

It needed to be consolidated and modernized to reflect all that's happened since. - Paul Hogan 

I think if we look at planning as trying to get the best outcome for society, and being focused on the 

decision or the plan to give a good outcome. - Paul Hogan 

If we are to operate a national planning system of different levels, it does need to be capable of interpretation. If you do the right thing, you will get a reasonable output. - Paul Hogan 

The real benefit of it is that it enables a center of excellence and pooling of expertise approach. - Paul Hogan 

We felt that the most effective thing to do to provide that assurance of the system was to establish an advisory board. - Paul Hogan 

There is always the need to reflect and learn about what's gone before. - Paul Hogan 

KEYWORDS

#PlanningandDevelopmentAct2024 #judicialreview #development #planning #environmentalegulation #legislation #NationalPlanningFramework #urbandevelopmentzones 

Constantly evolving regulations and best practices can make it hard to plan.

The April, the Irish Planning Institute launches a new podcast for professional planners working in government, private practice and others who want to be kept informed on changes in planning thought, law and practice.

Our first episode breaks down the complexities of the new Planning Act and explores what the future holds for planning in Ireland. We examine the most significant updates, including streamlined development management, revised exempted development regulations, and the introduction of a Planning Commissioner. 

Our expert guest Paul Hogan played a central role in shaping Ireland’s planning framework, in his position as Assistant Secretary in the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage.

The episode is available for IPI members right now at ipi.ie and will be here for you on Apple, Spotify or Youtube from April 21. 

Click ‘Follow’ to join the Planners Podcast and get new episodes as soon as they are released and visit the IPI website for extended resources and CPD opportunities that complement each episode.

The brand new ‘Planners Podcast’ from the Irish Planning Institute. Click ‘Follow’ to hear our keynote first episode this April 21st.

In this episode, planning consultant John Spain reflects on over three decades shaping Ireland’s built environment — from the stagnation of the 1980s to the high-speed growth of the Celtic Tiger, and today’s complex challenges around housing, infrastructure, and viability.

Host Seán O’Leary talks with Spain about founding his own practice, navigating major legislative shifts, and why timelines, trust, and viability are now the critical levers in planning. They explore the impact of judicial reviews, investor confidence, and the need for smarter transition policies. Spain also offers grounded advice for those entering the profession today — and a candid view on what it will take to actually meet Ireland’s housing targets.

Whether you’re in public or private practice, this is a must-listen for anyone who wants a clear-eyed view of planning in Ireland: where it’s been, and where it needs to go.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

·       What viability really means in a planning context – and why it matters

·       How delays and uncertainty scare off investment 

·       Why housing permissions aren’t translating into homes 

·       The quiet infrastructure issues no one’s fixing 

·       What it takes to build — and sustain — a planning practice

·       Planning through legislative change and goalpost shifts

GUEST DETAILS

John Spain is the founder of JSA and now holds the role of Consultant at JSA having held the position of Managing Director until March 2025.

John has over thirty years of experience in planning and development in Ireland and the UK. In that time he has represented a large number of private and public sector clients and has been involved in a wide range of diverse projects.

Prior to establishing JSA, John was Associate Director of Hillier Parker, a leading UK firm of chartered surveyors and planning consultants. John has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Studies from Trinity College Dublin and a Master’s Degree in Regional and Urban Planning from University College Dublin.

John is a past president and Fellow of the Irish Planning Institute and a current Council Member of Property Industry Ireland. He is also a Member of the Society of Chartered Surveyors and the Royal Town Planning Institute. John is also a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

 QUOTES

Viability is a critical issue. And if planners want to achieve their objectives — which is to meet their housing needs — you have to consider viability. – John Spain

Timelines are everything. Investors can deal with a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’ — but what they can’t deal with is not knowing when. – John Spain

At the peak, we had 82,000 housing units applied for. Now we’re down to 46,000 — and we need to double that just to meet our targets – John Spain

Policy change is necessary, but you can’t keep moving the goalposts mid-game. That’s when confidence breaks down – John Spain

We don’t have a delivery mechanism for the small stuff — the road, the pipe, the access — and that’s what’s stalling entire developments – John Spain

PODCAST HOST DETAILS

Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. 

With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." 

His insights are invaluable for professionals and enthusiasts alike seeking to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.

As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession. 

Through his work with the IPI and his engaging contributions to the podcast, he helps to demystify planning concepts, explore current challenges, and highlight innovative solutions. His authoritative presence significantly enhances the podcast's value, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in the future of planning in Ireland.

Find out more: https://ipi.ie/

ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE

The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.

As the publisher of "The Planners' Podcast," the Irish Planning Institute demonstrates its commitment to fostering informed discussion and professional development. The IPI actively works to raise planning standards, articulate expert opinion, contribute to planning education, and promote environmental awareness. By providing a platform for leading voices like Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI, the IPI ensures that its podcast remains a leading resource for insights into Irish planning policy, challenges, and future directions.

Find out more:

https://ipi.ie/

The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io

What is really at the heart of Ireland’s housing crisis? 

Dr Lorcan Sirr joins the Planners Podcast to challenge myths, question quick fixes, and explain why planning is more than just regulations, it’s about building quality communities that work for everyone. 

From the pitfalls of modular homes to the realities of apartment living, Lorcan pulls no punches as he unpacks the policies, politics, and practicalities shaping Ireland’s homes today. 

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

• Why tearing up the planning rulebook won’t fix Ireland’s housing crisis but what might
• The real story behind modular homes—are they a solution or just a sign we’re out of ideas?
• Are Irish people truly allergic to apartment living? Lorcan busts some long-standing housing myths
• Who wins with build-to-rent—and who gets left behind?
• Is Dublin really broken? What’s gone wrong, what’s gotten better, and what no one wants to talk about

GUEST DETAILS

Lorcan Sirr is an academic with over 20 years’ teaching and research experience. As a senior lecturer his areas of expertise include housing, planning and development, research methods and policy evaluation and he is also Visiting Professor of Housing in the Faculty of Law in the Universitat Rovira I Virgilii, Tarragona, Spain and at the University of Galway. Lorcan was previously the Head of the Futures Academy and Faculty Head of Research. 

Lorcan has taught students from certificate to PhD level and has supervised over 50 MSc theses and several PhDs. His lectures, workshops and projects are contemporaneous in nature, dealing with relevant real-world issues in property, housing, planning and research. 

Lorcan is a board member of the Irish Refugee Council and Fire Station Artists’ Studios. He is also a former Sunday Times columnist and still writes for many publications, including The Irish Times and Irish Independent, as well as being author of various books on housing.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorcansirr/

 QUOTES

If you want some degree of quality in your housing, then planning is central to the delivery of housing…- Dr Lorcan Sirr

You could deliver housing all day long with no planning system at all… but would you want to live in it? - Dr Lorcan Sirr

So, at a higher level, I think ideas like this are, you know, simplistic nonsense in a way. What’s worrying is the political acceptance and how much traction that story got. - - Dr Lorcan Sirr

My first house that I ever bought was an apartment, and I’ve lived in apartments all over Europe. There’s no problem, in theory, with living in apartments. But we’ve shot ourselves in the foot in a couple of ways. - Dr Lorcan Sirr

The only people who know how much it costs to build an apartment are the people who are building apartments—and they’re not going to tell you. - Dr Lorcan Sirr

The idea that we would allow people to build anything they want in the back gardens as homes is kind of nonsense… To provide services, you need to know who’s living where. - Dr Lorcan Sirr

PODCAST HOST DETAILS

Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. 

With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." 

His insights are invaluable for professionals and enthusiasts alike seeking to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.

As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession. 

Through his work with the IPI and his engaging contributions to the podcast, he helps to demystify planning concepts, explore current challenges, and highlight innovative solutions. His authoritative presence significantly enhances the podcast's value, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in the future of planning in Ireland.

Find out more: https://ipi.ie/

ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE

The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.

As the publisher of "The Planners' Podcast," the Irish Planning Institute demonstrates its commitment to fostering informed discussion and professional development. The IPI actively works to raise planning standards, articulate expert opinion, contribute to planning education, and promote environmental awareness. By providing a platform for leading voices like Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI, the IPI ensures that its podcast remains a leading resource for insights into Irish planning policy, challenges, and future directions.

Find out more:

https://ipi.ie/

The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io

KEYWORDS

#HousingCrisis #UrbanPlanning #IrishHousing #BuildToRent #PlanningMatters #ModularHomes

In a truly exclusive event, we're delighted to welcome Oonagh Buckley, Secretary General of the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, for her very first podcast appearance!

Oonagh shares invaluable insights into her department's critical work in shaping Ireland's sustainable future including Ireland's leadership in renewable energy integration, the exciting new frontiers in maritime planning, and the strategic vision driving climate action.

Oonagh’s insights offer crucial guidance for planners navigating the evolving landscape of Ireland's environmental and planning policies.

But that's not all.

In a candid conversation, Oonagh also reflects on her pivotal and challenging tenure as Interim Chair of An Bord Pleanála at one of its most difficult times in its history.

Get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how she tackled the significant issues, rebuilt trust, and implemented crucial reforms that have set the course for the planning system today.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

• The role of the recently renamed Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment 
• Maritime planning and responsibilities
• Writing and implementing the Planning and Development Act 2000 and its ongoing influence on the new Planning and Development Act 2024.
• Strategic Infrastructure Development Legislation
• Governance and Structural Changes and exactly what constitutes “good governance”
• Planning System and Renewable Energy Goals
• Grid Investment and Resilience
• Judicial Review and Planning Guidelines
• Renewables, the electricity grid, climate resilience and adaptation
• Oonagh’s pivotal appointment and challenging tenure as interim Chair of An Bord Pleanála during one of its most difficult times in history.
• The transition of An Bord Pleanála to An Coimisiún Pleanála

GUEST DETAILS

Oonagh Buckley is the Secretary General of the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment.

Her extensive experience includes playing a pivotal role in shaping the legislative landscape that Irish planners navigate daily.

Notably, Oonagh was instrumental in drafting the foundational Planning and Development Act 2000 and its associated regulations which continue to influence planning in Ireland and inform the new Planning and Development Act 2024.

Throughout her career, Oonagh has held senior positions across various key government departments.

Prior to her current role, she served as Deputy Secretary General in the Department of Justice, with responsibility for civil justice matters including immigration, courts, and civil and family law.

She also served as Director General of the Workplace Relations Commission and held senior roles in the Departments of Public Expenditure and Reform, Environment (where she worked on planning policy and wildlife conservation), and Foreign Affairs.

Her leadership was further demonstrated as the interim Chair of An Bord Pleanála during one of its most challenging periods, showcasing her deep understanding and steady hand in the Irish planning system. 

Oonagh's broad expertise across diverse policy areas underscores her invaluable contribution to public service and to the crucial intersection of policy and practice in Ireland.

https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/

https://ie.linkedin.com/in/oonaghbuckleydgwrc

PODCAST HOST DETAILS

Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning.

With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast."

His insights are invaluable for professionals and enthusiasts alike seeking to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.

As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession.

Through his work with the IPI and his engaging contributions to the podcast, he helps to demystify planning concepts, explore current challenges, and highlight innovative solutions. His authoritative presence significantly enhances the podcast's value, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in the future of planning in Ireland.

https://ipi.ie/

https://ie.linkedin.com/company/irish-planning-institute

 
MORE INFORMATION

IPI Planners Podcast is produced by DustPod.io

ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE

The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.

As the publisher of "The Planners' Podcast," the Irish Planning Institute demonstrates its commitment to fostering informed discussion and professional development. The IPI actively works to raise planning standards, articulate expert opinion, contribute to planning education, and promote environmental awareness. By providing a platform for leading voices like Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI, the IPI ensures that its podcast remains a leading resource for insights into Irish planning policy, challenges, and future directions.

Find out more:

https://ipi.ie/

https://ie.linkedin.com/company/irish-planning-institute

QUOTES FROM OONAGH BUCKLEY IN THIS EPISODE

• It doesn’t surprise me that our system is creaking at the seams
• The jurisprudence around administrative bodies taking decisions is that they have to give reasons. And just as the law has got more complex, the reasoning has got more complex.
• The planning system has just got incredibly complex. I do feel sorry for the individuals, both at local authority level and board level, who have to go through all of this material
• If you're getting planning permission or you're being refused planning permission as an individual, you need to know the core reasons for that.
• Consents only move at the speed of the narrowest bit of the pike.
• I’d been watching with a great deal of concern, the stories coming out of the board 
• The national planning framework includes quite a lot of language around renewable energy
• We'll be working very hard to try and ensure that we have a very robust sectoral adaptation plan for the energy side…Storm Éowyn is Exhibit A as to why we need it.

KEYWORDS

The new 2024 Planning and Development Act marks a major turning point for how planning is done in Ireland—but what does implementing it actually look like in practice?

Today, we’re diving into how the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) is preparing to implement the new Act—from reviewing plans, to more active oversight, and helping embed digital tools and innovation across the system. We also explore the broader work of the OPR, from research to enhancing public awareness and confidence in planning and in resourcing. We also examine the OPR’s role in ensuring the Act delivers real, practical improvements across Ireland’s planning landscape.

Joining us to unpack these changes is Niall Cussen, Chief Executive and Planning Regulator at the OPR, who brings over 30 years of experience in Irish planning.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

● The OPR’s role under the new legislation
● Tackling inconsistencies between development plans and the revised National Planning Framework
● How digitisation could improve customer service and plan-making efficiency
● Transparency, resourcing and updated planning fees
● Research and training for long-term system improvement

GUEST DETAILS
Niall Cussen is the Chief Executive and Planning Regulator at Ireland's Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR). Appointed as the country's first Planning Regulator, Cussen leads the OPR in overseeing the effective delivery of planning services by Ireland's 31 local authorities and An Bord Pleanála, ensuring alignment with national and regional policies, and promoting public awareness and research in planning matters.

Before his current role, Cussen served as Chief Planner at the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government from July 2014, having joined the department in January 2000. His earlier career includes planning positions with Clare, Meath, and Dublin City Councils, as well as with An Bord Pleanála.

Cussen holds degrees in economics and geography from Maynooth University, a Master's in Regional and Urban Planning from University College Dublin, and a diploma in Environmental Engineering from Trinity College Dublin. He is a Fellow and former President of the Irish Planning Institute.

https://ie.linkedin.com/in/niall-cussen-82313a28

MORE INFORMATION
Find out more at ipi.ie

IPI Planners Podcast is produced by DustPod.io 

QUOTES
They're good debates, and they happen within an open and transparent process. - Niall Cussen

Every day is a school day in the planning process. We're always dealing with new challenges or new missions that are important from a social or public or political perspective. - Niall Cussen

The planning system is very much a late comer to the digital way of doing things. - Niall Cussen

It’s really, really important that the planning function is appropriately resourced. - Niall Cussen 

Notwithstanding the fact there are things that are not quite right, and we have to do better into the future, I take a lot of comfort from where we've come from. - Niall Cussen 

KEYWORDS
#Planning #system #resourcing #nationalplanningframework #development #legislation #innovation, #localauthorities

As the Planning and Development Act 2024 rolls out, professionals across the sector are asking whether the new legal framework truly delivers on efficiency, environmental protection, and judicial review. 

Today, we dive into the tensions between reform and reality, and explore the implications for planners, developers, communities, and legal practitioners alike. We explore the challenges posed by limited resources in implementing the reforms, along with looking at how the legislation aligns with broader climate and environmental goals, identifying areas of progress as well as aspects that may require further attention or amendment.

Our expert guest is an experienced litigator with particular expertise in planning, environment and public law. It’s a pleasure to welcome Partner at Philip Lee and Chairperson of the Law Society’s Environmental and Planning Law Committee, Rachel Minch, to the podcast. 

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

• Where the new legislation fits within Ireland’s evolving planning framework
• Streamlined consent processes and land use planning 
• A critical look at the Act’s failure to address key judicial review issues
• Implementation challenges and resourcing gaps
•  How the Act aligns (or doesn’t) with environmental protection and climate change goals

GUEST DETAILS

Rachel Minch is an experienced litigator with particular expertise in planning, environment and public law. She also advises public and private sector clients on non-contentious issues in these areas.

Rachel has handled the defence of numerous judicial reviews of decisions relating to the planning and licensing of development including strategic transport, waste and energy infrastructure.

She is Chairperson of the Law Society Environmental and Planning Law Practice Committee and a Council member of the Irish Environmental Law Association.

https://ie.linkedin.com/in/rachel-minch-b274424

MORE INFORMATION
Find out more at ipi.ie

IPI Planners Podcast is produced by DustPod.io

QUOTES

One of the main concerns across the board is the new judicial review provisions, and in particular, those relating to standing and costs. - Rachel Minch 

I think we're seeing an interesting evolution in case law. - Rachel Minch

It's very difficult to see how developers would take the risk of having to commence their development, but then also being drawn into this very complex process with an uncertain outcome. - Rachel Minch

I think in circumstances where the scope of it's been broadened, it's important that there should be some ability for the public to be involved in the process. - Rachel Minch

Climate change hasn't been taken fully by the horns yet in relation to the act. - Rachel Minch

KEYWORDS
#PlanningandDevelopmentAct2024 #judicialreview #environmentallaw #climatechange #development #landuse #infrastructure

The planning system is often perceived as complex and adversarial, presenting barriers to development and public satisfaction. Success requires overcoming these challenges by embedding continuous improvement and promoting a culture where planners act as facilitators, not barriers.

This episode explores the Department for Infrastructure’s (DFI) central role in setting strategic direction and its priorities, including the Planning Improvement Programme and the complex timeline for Local Development Plans. We discuss the increasing legislative complexity, resourcing, and the potential for mutual learning through cross-border collaboration.
Host Sean O'Leary is joined by Rosemary Daly, Northern Ireland’s Chief Planner, and Philip McGowan, Joint Head of Regional Planning Policy with the Department for Infrastructure.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

Planning is a cognitive, creative process
DFI's central leadership role explained
Improving efficiency via the planning programme
Complexity challenges and judicial process
Cross-border professional learning and growth

QUOTES

Good planning is fundamentally a cognitive discipline before it becomes a technical one. - Philip McGowan

The thing that really attracts me to planning is there is something for everyone. - Rosemary Daly

I see planning, especially policy planning, as a creative, deep thinking cognitive process. - Philip McGowan

The big takeaway for me is the more we work together, the better we will achieve in the world of planning. - Rosemary Daly

GUEST DETAILS

Rosemary Daly is Chief Planner and Director of Regional Planning, Governance, and Legislation at the Department for Infrastructure (DFI). She has almost thirty years of planning experience, including private consultancy and eighteen years as a commissioner at the Planned Appeals Commission. Her skills include insight into development delivery and a passion for planning's link to community. 

Philip McGowan is a Principal Planner and Joint Head of Regional Planning Policy at DFI. He is a policy expert, instrumental in delivering the Strategic Planning Policy Statement and creating new policy for safeguarding established residential areas.

Connect with the Irish Planning Institute:

Website: ipi.ie

Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi

Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast"

PODCAST HOST DETAILS

Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. 

With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." 

Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.
As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession. 

Find out more: https://ipi.ie/

ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE

The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.

Find out more:

https://ipi.ie/

The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io

KEYWORDS #NorthernIreland #PlanningReform #PolicyPlanning #CrossBorder #PublicInterest

Planning today is shaped by major legislative reform, including the Planning and Development Act 2024 and the Critical Infrastructure Bill, climate and environmental obligations, and legal scrutiny.

In this episode Deirdre Nagle, Partner and Head of the Planning and Environment Law team at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP, brings us up to date with these issues and discusses the need for planners to be brave in decision making.

Deirdre is Partner and Head of the Planning and Environment Law team at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP. Her extensive expertise includes advising on the planning aspects of major state infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy sector.

Deirdre practises in both contentious and non-contentious planning and environmental law. She has extensive experience in advising and acting for state bodies on major projects relating to all aspects of the consenting process including compulsory acquisition.

Prior to joining Mason Hayes & Curran Deirdre worked for a state body responsible for the development of energy infrastructure.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

Critical Infrastructure Bill
Planning and Development Act 2024
Exempted Development Regulations
RED III
Case law including Coolglass 

QUOTES

The system, you just have to get through it as quickly as possible. There's no point railing against it, just get on with it. - Deirdre Nagle
You can introduce legislation and tell people they have to coordinate, they have to fast track, but do they have the resources?  - Deirdre Nagle
You just have to kind of prepare for these things to happen and go through the process. -  Deirdre Nagle

GUEST DETAILS

Deirdre Nagle is a Partner at the law firm Mason Hayes and Curran. She is a leading practitioner in planning and environmental law. Her expertise includes advising on complex planning projects from strategic planning to consenting and judicial review. Deirdre is passionate about moving infrastructure, housing, and renewable energy projects forward.

Connect with Deirdre: 

https://www.mhc.ie/people/deirdre-nagle

https://www.mhc.ie/practice-areas/planning-and-environment-law

Connect with the Irish Planning Institute:

Website: ipi.ie

Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi

Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast"

PODCAST HOST DETAILS

Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. 
With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." 

Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.
As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession. 

Find out more: https://ipi.ie/

ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE

The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.

Find out more:
https://ipi.ie/

The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io

KEYWORDS #PlanningLaw #DevelopmentAct #JudicialReview #ClimateAction #InfrastructureProjects

The planning system in Ireland faces monumental pressure, demanding not only efficient decision-making but also the highest standards of trust and governance. The challenge of meeting mandatory timelines while navigating complex legal and environmental factors requires a focused strategic approach to reform. This episode explores the critical changes underway at An Coimisiún Pleanála and the leadership driving a major cultural shift.

The discussion delves into how the organisation has dramatically cleared its substantial case backlog, the impact of new governance structures, and the strategic push to digital transformation, including exploring the use of Artificial Intelligence. We also examine the difficult reality of the tightening timelines imposed by planning reforms and the Red III Directive for renewable energy applications.

We are joined by Peter Mullan, CEO of An Coimisiún Pleanála and former Chair of An Bord Pleanála. Having transitioned from a long career in criminal law and public service, Peter shares his journey, his priorities for the organisation, and his commitment to restoring and protecting public confidence.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

- Peter Mullan's career transition to planning.
- New An Coimisiún Pleanála governance structure.
- Clearing the extensive planning case backlog.
- Responding to Red 3 Directive timelines.
- Building trust after corporate governance failures.

QUOTES

- Oonagh Buckley said, Look, I really need people to come over to assist this organisation in its time of trouble. - Peter Mullan
- The organisation itself has come an awful long way in three years. - Peter Mullan
- Let's not forget that we're all here to support our 15 commissioners who make their planning decisions at the end of the day. - Peter Mullan

GUEST DETAILS

Peter Mullan is the CEO of An Coimisiún Pleanála, Ireland's national planning body. His career journey is a unique blend of criminal law and senior public service management, including roles in the Office of the DPP and the Department of Justice. Peter has been instrumental in leading extensive reforms and driving the organisation’s culture change.

Connect with the Irish Planning Institute:

- Website: ipi.ie
- Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi
- Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast"

PODCAST HOST DETAILS

Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. 

With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." 

Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.

As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession. 

Find out more: https://ipi.ie/

ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE

The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.

https://ipi.ie/

The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io

KEYWORDS
#IrishPlanning #AnCoimisiúnPleanála #PlanningReform #JudicialReview #PlanningTimelines