The minister and Department of Justice have traditionally been viewed as outside the housing policy process. Last week, however, Minister Jim O’Callaghan moved himself towards the heart of the debate. At the annual commemoration of General Liam Lynch, the War of Independence leader, in Cork, he signalled that the judicial review process — which allows planning decisions to be challenged in court — will soon be tightened. The aim, he said, is to ensure the law serves the public interest rather than becoming a tool to “delay, obfuscate and undermine” critical housing and infrastructure. The timing is significant. In less…

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