An investigation of planning in Kilkenny Corporation and County Council has found that two officials had been engaged in private practice, or so-called "nixers". Planning matters in Kilkenny have been under close scrutiny following media reports over the past few months, and now a report on the matter by the County Manager, PJ Donnelly, has been sent to the Department of the Environment.
In a short statement, Mr Donnelly said that one of the officers had left the employment of the local authority and a letter of warning had been issued to the other officer. A further three officers also came to the attention of the local authority, but no evidence of breach of regulations could be established in these cases. He said that new procedures have now been put in place and that the conduct of all officers in the two local authorities will be kept under continuous review to ensure full compliance with the Department's regulations. The Mayor of Kilkenny, Paul Cuddihy, said that the issue was "a matter of regret".
