31P.—(1) The functions of the Office are—

(a) to evaluate and assess—

(i) development plans, including draft development plans,

(ii) variations of development plans, including proposed variations,

(iii) local area plans, including the amendment or revocation of such plans, and

(iv) regional spatial and economic strategies,

during their preparation and making under Chapters I to III of Part II in order for the Office to provide observations and recommendations to planning authorities and regional assemblies, as appropriate, on those plans and strategies,

(b) in respect of any plan or strategy to which paragraph (a) relates, to inform the Minister if, in the opinion of the Office, any such plan or strategy is not consistent with its observations and recommendations, especially where, in its opinion, failure to be so consistent would affect the overall strategy for proper planning and sustainable development of the area concerned,

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(3) In performing its functions, the Office shall take account of the objective of contributing to proper planning and sustainable development and the optimal functioning of planning under the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2018.]