Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I wish to support amendments Nos. 9 and 10 in the name of Deputy McManus in preference to No. 8 in that of Deputy Twomey. I absolutely agree with the view that there can be no demarcation regarding property values. The reality throughout the jurisdiction is very different from that suggested, either in the legislation as presented or in amendments Nos. 8 and 11, if taken on board. We should insert "or elsewhere in the State", since property values can be quite particular to many areas throughout the jurisdiction. Recent years have seen the greater Dublin area expand into the south east and south of Cavan and Monaghan respectively. If the Ceann Comhairle were here, he could confirm that, being a commuter himself.

The property issue is not as straitjacketed as the legislation or certain amendments might suggest. The deletion of (b)(ii) is required to give effect to the inclusive designated demarcation line for property values. Those high prices are a consequence, I remind the Minister, of Government policy over the past nine years in particular, which has put property beyond the reach of many young couples. This is not merely a Dublin phenomenon but one seen throughout the State.

I record my support for amendments Nos. 9 and 10 for those reasons.

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