Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

I do not have that information to hand and the question would have to be directed to the Minister of State responsible for the Office of Public Works, Deputy Brian Hayes. He is responsible for public rent. I do not intend to understate the difficulties in the retail sector, and this issue has been raised by that sector. The Government has included the matter in the programme for Government and as I noted in the reply, the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Alan Shatter, is examining the options in this area and considering what legislation can be produced. The work he is undertaking is ongoing.

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