John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I wish to inform the Minister, Deputy Gormley, that my party is led by Deputy Kenny, who has a vision for the future. An opportunity has been lost in respect of this matter. This levy is a way to take in €330 million without putting anything back into the real economy. There is a great deal of uncertainty abroad at present and many people, including hauliers, will be affected by this levy. An opportunity exists in respect of ring-fencing this money and using it to create jobs in the real economy. However, that opportunity will not be seized.

People are going to experience major difficulties in the context of obtaining money from the banks to retrofit their homes. The banks are not lending money at present. It was stated that if people have difficulties obtaining money they can appeal their cases to an independent officer. This shows that the banks are not lending money. I cannot see how it will be possible for people to obtain €25,000 or €30,000 from their banks to retrofit their homes and that this will be justifiable on return within four years. There will be major difficulties in this regard.

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