Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I am speaking to my amendment No. 224. I agree with Deputy Boyd Barrett. I will be supporting his amendment and I hope it passes. These references should be taken out. If his amendment does not pass, the one I am proposing should be considered. It says that, in terms of setting a price, the Minister shall have regard to income, ability to pay and affordability. It is quite incredible that income, ability to pay and affordability are not among the criteria set down for the Minister to have regard to when setting a price. At an absolute minimum, the Minister should accept my amendment. However, Deputy Boyd Barrett's amendment is a good one and I will be supporting it.