Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Notwithstanding the very significant commitments in regard to mortgage interest relief for hard-pressed householders and the undertakings in regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the Keane report, will the Taoiseach indicate when he envisages the personal insolvency Bill will be brought before the House? In addition, will the Government take a more proactive approach to progressing the Bill brought forward by Deputy Michael McGrath through the House as urgently as possible? That legislation would give genuine relief to hard-pressed mortgage holders and people with significant household debt. A considerable period has passed since the publication of the Keane report and there is no evidence of anything emanating from the Government side. Deputy McGrath's Bill should be progressed, not simply left to rest indefinitely with the Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality.

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