A Bill has been published to fast-track the planning process for large scale IT infrastructural projects, such as data centres.

Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East Anne Rabbitte said the 'Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) (Amendment) Bill 2017' seeks to ensure Ireland's regulatory framework does not deter future investment and jobs growth.

She said: "We live in an increasingly competitive global environment. Ireland is one of many nations competing to secure high-quality job investment by major international companies.

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"The long running saga to get planning approval for the €850m Apple data centre in Athenry is very concerning. The people of Athenry, Galway and beyond have come out in force firmly behind this project.

"This is a fantastic project, which will be fully powered by renewable energy and provide 300 jobs in construction and at least a hundred full time jobs when the facility becomes operational.

"Balanced regional development is vital in order to bring sustainable growth to all parts of Ireland. Regrettable, serial objectors are holding back progress on this by using current planning laws to prevent approval for this and other data centre projects.

"Ireland needs to send out a clear message to foreign direct investors that we are open for business. Planning laws must not deter potential investors from Irish shores."

(CD/MH)