Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)

I wish to seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 32 to raise an issue of national importance, namely the need for Dublin City Council to immediately take action to provide funding for Dolphin House flat complex in the south-west inner city to address the serious problems of sewerage and mildew which is causing residents to live in sub-standard conditions. We watched with disgrace the television programme addressing this issue. It is an everyday occurrence, as the Members will be aware. In St. Teresa's Gardens, Bernard Curtis House, Watling Street - I can go on - considerable health risks are caused through damp flats and mildew, and particularly sewerage seeping up through the kitchen sink.

Before I finish, I would ask the Ceann Comhairle to explain to me as a public representative, because I know at the end of this he will rule the matter out of order, what is of national importance. Is it of national importance that people have the right to live in a home, which is properly ventilated and properly maintained and for which they pay rent?

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