But one contributory factor, identified by a growing number of commentators across the political spectrum, is over-regulation. Regulation is essential to protect the environment, ensure standards and safeguard public health. Yet excessive regulation can stifle development and become a vehicle for vested interests to act contrary to the public good. The Minister of State for Planning, John Cummins, has indicated that a range of developments will no longer require planning permission. The proposals should also help to free up a planning system that has become a serious chokepoint, allowing planners to concentrate on the larger projects that matter most.
