Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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I am sorry, but I am not talking about Senator Paudie Coffey at all; rather, I am talking about the reference in the Bill I am reading. I am sorry that he is so sensitive to my comments and disappointed that he will not listen to what I am saying. I will not be shouted down by anybody, no matter what party he or she is in.

What I am saying about addressing a number of urgent issues is that the legislation clearly states there will be new EIA screening arrangements and the undertaking of works, including mercy flood relief works to be carried out by the OPW. This is a huge concern. In my constituency there are hundreds of houses which have been built on flood plains and the OPW is engaged in flood relief works. The point is they should never have been built in the first place. The reason flood plains are being built on is councillors changed the planning zoning. That is the problem. Building on flood plains is unacceptable and I am concerned about the legislation in this regard. I would like to think building on flood plains in east Meath to the detriment of hundreds of householders is absolutely unacceptable and would not like to see it continue.

The legislation refers to the sale of 20 units or more. If I sell 20 units or more, there will be a dispensation.