Seán Conlan (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)

I congratulate Deputy Donnelly on bringing this Bill before the House. It is important we deal with these mortgage issues. Many of my friends, neighbours and constituents have serious mortgage difficulties and these are an ongoing problem. I have listened carefully to the arguments today and to the Government's position on the issue. I hope that when the personal insolvency Bill comes before the House, some of the best elements of Deputy Donnelly's Bill will be incorporated in it so that we deal with the issue as best we can for all our constituents.

These Friday debates are an important format that allow Members bring Bills before the House and I commend Deputy Donnelly on doing that and on the time and effort he has spent in bringing his Bill forward. I hope we can get to grips with this issue in the next couple of months if possible. I understand the final version of the personal insolvency Bill will be before the House before the end of April. I understand there are some constitutional difficulties with regard to one aspect of Deputy Donnelly's Bill and I, therefore, support the Government position. However, I thank Deputy Donnelly for bringing the Bill before the House.

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