Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)

It has happened with all the financial institutions. They have all refused to provide mortgages. Once one made the decision, they all backed it up. They cannot give a reason but because one lending institution refused to provide mortgages, they have all refused.

I wish to bring to the Minister of State's attention the issue of anti-social behaviour, particularly in regard to voluntary housing associations. While local authorities have strong powers under section 62 of the Housing Act 1966, that same provision does not apply to voluntary housing associations. The 1997 Act included anti-social behaviour under exclusion orders but for such an order to proceed, it must go through the courts system. It must be evidence based and proof must be provided. Under the 1997 legislation, the judge has the discretion as to whether to enforce the exclusion order. Under the 1966 Act, that was not required in regard to a local authority.

I have come across a couple of instances in the case of voluntary housing associations where there are huge problems of anti-social behaviour among two tenants. However, the locals and residents are afraid to provide the evidence in case of victimisation. I ask the Minister of State to examine the legislation in that regard.

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