An Taisce is calling on the government to immediately legislate for the recommendations of the Mahon Tribunal report and to establish an independent regulator for the planning system.

It follows the publication of planning investigations of six local authorities by the Department of the Environment.

An independent review found that the planning authorities which were examined responded positively in addressing issues identified.

However, it says certain systems and procedures need to be reviewed and enhanced to achieve the standards of transparency, consistency and accountability that a modern society expects - and that is what the Government will focus on.