The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website's Policy Section provides information under the five main headings of Housing, Local Government, Heritage, Planning and Water. Information from these five Policy areas on the website are presented here, including links to each Policy area.
The government is helping local authorities and developers to plan and build better and more houses for people to live in.
This involves working with other public, private and voluntary bodies to:
The department supports local government in its role of promoting the wellbeing and quality of life of citizens and communities through the efficient performance of functions and delivery of good-value services at local level.
Our built and natural heritage contributes to national health, wellbeing, enjoyment and sustainable economic growth. The goal of the department’s Heritage division is to conserve and manage Ireland’s unique heritage for the benefit of present and future generations, as a support to economic renewal and sustainable employment and in compliance with legal obligations.
We work to ensure that Ireland has a suite of policies and legislation in place to meet modern requirements and in compliance with EU and international heritage obligations. We also work to achieve effective implementation and, where appropriate, enforcement of heritage policies and legislation, including through third parties.
In this way, we promote greater appreciation and understanding of the immense intrinsic value of Ireland’s rich heritage and also as a valuable amenity for business, community development, farming and tourism and as a means of presenting Ireland as an attractive destination for sustainable inward investment.
Our planning system is set out in national legislation and policy which provides for:
This department aims to protect and improve water resources in Ireland. This is done by implementing national and European policy regarding water services and water quality.
Having good, secure water supplies, comprehensive wastewater services and clean waters are vital for protecting public health, supporting economic growth and preserving our environment.
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