They say it's causing delays in applications.
County councils must be allowed to take the lead with planning applications, according to Sinn Féin.
Laois-Offaly TD Brian Stanley says it's frustrating to see local authorities being bypassed and applications taken to An Bord Pleanála instead.
He says it's leading to major backlogs in the planning process, at a time when we desperately need to free up more land for housing.
Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Stanley also called for local authorities to implement the Vacant Site Levy more vigorously:
Fast Track Citizenship Proposed For Immigrants Serving In Defence Forces
Gardaí Investigating Spate Of Laois Thefts
Westmeath Councillor Wants Short Term Let Planning Exemptions For Self Caterers
Plans For 27-Acre Midlands Soccer Facility Rejected
Laois Senator Rails Against Rent Pressure Zone Legislation
Managers Should Consider Remote Work Where Possible - FRS
Tourism Minister Welcomes Government Short-Term Let Restrictions
Former Portlaoise Prison Assistant Governor Criticises Psychiatric Prisoner Numbers
Midlands Local Authority Submits Plans To Extend Living City Initiative
Laois Commuters Spend Up To Two Hours A Day Travelling To Work
"Clarity, Honesty And Fairness Must Come Before Profits" - Midlands MEP
Rent Increases Hit Westmeath Council Tenants
NUJ Warn Oireachtas AI Threatening Journalism
Midlands Tourism Businesses Awarded For Excellence
Man Accused Of Murder In 5 Star Laois Hotel Pleads Not Guilty
Time To Move On From Bord Bia Bickering - Midlands MEP
Three Midlands Schools In Line For New Special Classes
Two Men Hospitalised Following Midlands Assault
Midlands Wind Farm Opponents Face ‘Uphill Battle’
Laois Councillor Wants Clarity On NDP