Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)

I am glad this debate is taking place in the House tonight. It should not, however, take place in an atmosphere of fear, worrying people, but of hope, letting people know options are available. One of the most irresponsible statements I heard in this House since I was elected was that of the Labour Party leader claiming the world and its mother knows that as soon as the NAMA legislation is passed, there will be an avalanche of repossessions. How frightening was that wrong statement for people genuinely suffering from arrears but not facing the prospect of repossession.

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