Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)

I am extremely disappointed that the Minister of State is not more positive about this amendment. I am seeking a reasonable period of time in which to facilitate people availing of this scheme. The reason given that this amendment cannot be accepted is because of the administrative difficulties it will create due to the number of gale days met during that period of time. Will the Minister of State put a figure on the administrative costs? I appreciate he cannot do so off the top of his head. I guarantee him it will be a fraction of the cost of trying to collect these arrears in the future from the 98 people involved and other people unable to avail of this discount scheme.

In the interests of the Exchequer it is of the utmost importance that the Minister of State facilitate as many people as possible availing of this scheme and encourage them to do so. People will not consider this until the legislation has been enacted. The IFA held a campaign and we argued in the House that the discount should be greater than it is. However, until the legislation is enacted people will not examine this issue or the title.

How many additional staff will the Minister of State appoint in Farnham Street in Cavan to deal with these queries during the coming months? I have dealt with the staff in Farnham Street. They are excellent and all credit must be given to them for expediting cases. However, cases have continued for years because land certificates have been lost, or transferring one piece of land requires the transfer of 40 or 50 other pieces of land in conjunction with it. It will be a nightmare for the staff to deal with this within the window of opportunity provided by the Bill.

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