Mr. Tom O'Brien:

I will address that point and I accept it. When people find themselves in those circumstances, however, it is up to the State to cater for them - it is not up to private individuals to do it at their own cost. Reverting to the issue of substantial refurbishment, it costs about €15,000 to do a basic refurbishment of a two bedroom apartment. The difference in enjoyment of that apartment that a tenant will have pre and post the refurbishment scenario is substantial. I am interested in knowing why Deputy Barry feels the landlord should not be able to charge more for that apartment on the basis that he or she has substantially improved the quality of the living environment.