To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what steps he will take to ensure planning officials are kept up to date and fully trained in the latest renewable energy technology, so as to better make recommendations and decisions within councils.

I recognise that training is an important component of improving the planning process.

The identification of training needs for planning officers across local government is primarily the responsibility of each council. However, my Department has been engaging with the renewables industry and other stakeholders, including Councils, with a view to working collaboratively on learning opportunities in relation to the latest renewable energy technology.