Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

This is quite a radical step. I agree with the Minister in respect of many of the issues he raised. The key point is, however, that the legislation has not yet been published. The principle being established is that land which is zoned for social and affordable housing and not so used can be compulsorily acquired. Perhaps the Minister will outline what will be the effect on me if, say, I own 20 acres of zoned land outside Drogheda but wish to sell it for some other purpose. For how many years must I have sat on the land before the new legal instruments come into force?

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