The Strategic Housing Development legislation (SHD) undermines democratic and transperant participation by Local Authorities and Citizens in the Planning Process. It also departs from Ireland's obligations under the Aarhaus Convention. Communities around Ireland suffer when bad planning practise results in inappropiate housing development is imposed through this legislation. The legislation was designed to increase housing supply faster than the normal planning process through Local Government. There is no clear evidence that it has provided much need additional housing any faster. The new Programme for Government negotiated by FF, FG and the Greens is committed to abolishing this legislation in 18 months. We  call on any Government formed to abolish the legislation within one month of taking office as the 18 month delay could result in an avalanche of inappropiate housing developments seeking planning approval to "beat" the 18 month guillotine. Such planning approvals would add value to lands held by developers but not result in housing being built in the 18 months. END SHD NOW.