Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

My Department is continuing to examine possible measures aimed at moderating land costs for housing and other essential public infrastructure. The report on ownership and control of building land, which was commissioned by my Department from Goodbody Economic Consultants, forms part of that process. It remains under consideration and will be published when the examination is complete.

I welcome the ninth progress report of the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution, referred to by Deputy O'Sullivan, on the subject of property rights. My Department will give detailed consideration to all its recommendations as part of that examination, in consultation with other Departments, as appropriate. I have noted the committee's view that capping the price of building land does not require a constitutional amendment and the Attorney General will be consulted on this and other related matters.

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