The chair of Northern Ireland's public accounts committee has voiced concerns over an Audit Office report into the Planning Service.

Auditors suggested customer service was not wholly satisfactory, with the length of time taken to process applications highlighted as an issue.

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Maskey said it was crucial failings are addressed so public confidence is instilled in the planning body.

"This report, by the Audit Office report on the performance of the Planning Service, highlights a number of failings that will need to be addressed if we are to have an efficient and effective planning process that ash the confidence of those who would be utilising the service," he said.

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Mr Maskey said fellow members of the Stormont public accounts committee were likely to raise similar questions.

"[They] will want to ask questions to the department on issues including addressing what have the Planning Service done to improve performance."

He continued: "As the report highlights the Planning Service has consistently failed to meet it's own targets for its main business area and we need to ask why?"

Mr Maskey said he do not want to draw any conclusions about the report at this stage.

"However, the facts, as they stand, do not paint a pretty picture," he said.

"As we move forward in these difficult economic times all public representatives recognise the need for a streamlined efficient planning system."

The committee has agreed to hold an evidence session on the Audit Office publication next week.

(PR/GK)