A Labour Senator has said that it is "absolutely critical that people have full confidence in the planning process".

Senator Rebeccas Moynihan made the comments following news that the report into An Bord Pleanála has been referred to the DPP and an Garda Síochána.

She said: "It's clear that the independent report into An Bord Pleanála reveals deeper issues and they must be addressed. I'm calling on the Minister to publish the report in full immediately and convene an Oireachtas debate upon its return in September.

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"Transparency and fairness are the bedrock to any democracy and trust in the planning system is completely vital, and the public must be satisfied that the Minister will outline specific actions to address any systems failings. Labour has a long and proud history of encouraging transparency in the planning process. The public simply must be able to trust in the bona fides of Ireland’s independent planning body.

"This debacle has been characterised by a lack of clarity and drip feed of allegations regarding An Bord Pleanála is deeply concerning and demands serious government attention. This is a matter of public interest and must be addressed without delay."