Investigation & Enforcement for Planning Officers
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Succeeding at Oral Hearings for Local Authorities
This training gives aims to provide attendees with a thorough understanding of the procedures at an oral hearing, the order of events and the process of giving evidence. Attendees will also get an opportunity to be cross examined on a typical scheme they would present at a hearing.
795
Online
9:30am - 4:30pm
1 day
About this course
Different professionals will be required to give evidence at oral hearings to ensure they are in compliance with proper planning principles and sustainable development.
This is a daunting prospect for those who are unused to the rigours of questioning by other experts and skilled lawyers.
This course aims to provide delegates with a clear understanding of the procedures at an oral hearing, the process of giving evidence and an opportunity to be cross-examined on a typical scheme presented at a hearing.
Course syllabus
Key learning points:
- Deal with in depth cross-examinations on their submissions,
- Planning and Development Act, 2000,
- Dealing with strategic infrastructure developments,
- Gain mastery of their delivery,
- Make full use of supporting documents, plans, photographs, etc…
- Understand the role and scope of an oral hearing,
- Handle difficult cross-examination techniques confidently,
- Understand the procedures and protocol for oral hearings,
- Developing an objective and critical eye in relation to your report writing.
An oral hearing can deal with:
- A planning appeal,
- A valid objection to a CPO (compulsory purchase order),
- A referral (a Planning Authority refers a request for declaration, as to whether something is ‘development or exempted development’, to the Board) or,
- An application for strategic infrastructure development.
This course is particularly relevant to:
- Air Quality Consultants
- Archaeologists
- Architects
- Ecology Consultants
- Engineers
- Environmental Consultants
- Fire Engineers
- Groundwater and Surface Water Consultants
- Noise, Vibration and Acoustics Consultants
- Occupational Health Consultants
- Soils and Geology Consultants
- Transport Planners
This course is accredited by Engineers Ireland.
Our expert trainers
La Touche Training Legal Experts
We work with a wide panel of specialist trainers, all chosen based on their experience and knowledge, experience both in practice and as trained trainers. The majority of our trainers are experienced...
Read BioPractical training with small groups to ensure quality.
Our training sessions are not lectures—they're practical, interactive experiences. The small group format allows every attendee to ask questions, take part in discussions involving practical exercises and role-plays.
This method of training allows attendees to put the skills learned into practice immediately. Course participants benefit from the focused attention and guidance of an independent expert.
Succeeding at Oral Hearings
FAQs
An oral hearing is a formal process, typically conducted by An Bord Pleanála, where parties present evidence and arguments relating to planning appeals or strategic infrastructure decisions. It allows stakeholders to be heard in person before a final determination is made.
This training is particularly relevant for local authority officials, planners, engineers, solicitors, and consultants who prepare for or participate in oral hearings in Ireland’s planning system.
Key skills include presenting evidence clearly, responding to cross-examination, understanding planning law and procedure, and communicating persuasively under formal conditions.
Preparation involves reviewing case documentation, anticipating questions, organising evidence logically, and understanding the procedural rules governing oral hearings in Ireland.
An Bord Pleanála appoints an inspector to conduct the oral hearing, assess the evidence presented, and make a recommendation or decision on planning appeals or applications.
Oral hearings are typically reserved for complex, large-scale, or contentious planning cases where significant public interest or environmental considerations arise.
Challenges include managing cross-examination, addressing conflicting expert evidence, staying within procedural rules, and maintaining clarity under pressure.
The course provides practical guidance on structuring arguments, handling questioning, understanding procedural expectations, and learning from real-world Irish case examples.
While a basic understanding of the Irish planning system is beneficial, the course is designed to support both experienced professionals and those newer to oral hearings.
Participants can expect improved confidence, stronger presentation skills, and a clearer understanding of how to effectively contribute to oral hearings within the Irish planning framework.
