Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Daly has outlined that IDA Ireland has these powers already. It is important to note that, from our point of view, the Bill does not equip the agency with extended, strengthened or additional statutory powers. That must be stated at this meeting. If I could offer any reassurance to Deputy Daly, it would be that in reality I do not expect anything will change in practice with regard to how IDA Ireland carries out its property functions on foot of this legislation. As the Deputy said, the use of the power is extremely rare and, as she also said, IDA Ireland used it once. It is only in exceptional circumstances where a property is of great strategic importance is involved.

I do not expect any change in practice and I think IDA Ireland would be very careful in how it would use this section. That is why the Bill does not change anything.