Planning Reform: An Coimisiún Pleanála CEO Peter Mullan

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.

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.

GUEST DETAILS

Peter Mullan was appointed as An Coimisiún Pleanála Chief Executive Officer on 18 June 2025. He was previously An Bord Pleanála Chairperson, appointed for a seven-year term from 23 January 2024 after serving as interim chairperson from September 2023. Peter was first appointed as a temporary Board member in January 2023.

A solicitor by profession he joined the public service in 2012 following almost 20 years in private practice as a solicitor specialising in criminal law and litigation. Peter joined An Bord Pleanála from the Courts Service where he was an Assistant Secretary, having responsibility for Circuit and District Courts Operations since 2018. Prior to that, he was Assistant Secretary in the Department of Justice and Equality for a number of years and Chief Prosecution Solicitor in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, his first role in the Public Service.

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KEYWORDS

#IrishPlanning #AnCoimisiúnPleanála #PlanningReform #JudicialReview #PlanningTimelines