The “problems” you describe of gaining planning permission for one-off rural houses are a direct consequence of planning authorities implementing these policies.
They vary in different parts of the country, depending on the nature of settlement patterns and the influence of urban areas. In Clare, for instance, while parts of the county have a locals-only policy, in a substantial area that has experienced population decline no such policy applies.
In fact, new housing is encouraged in order to support local services such as schools, shops and pubs.
Bill Sansum
Newmarket, Co Clare