Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)

The Minister is correct; he is not responsible. However, the system did not make adequate provision. Somebody is responsible; the residents certainly are not and the Minister is in the unique position of being able to assist them. I do not accept that he cannot step in until the legal process is over. If Dublin City Council wins the legal proceedings, as is likely, and is released from paying the rents of the home owners concerned, who will pay their bills? Does the Government expect them to pay mortgages on valueless properties, as well as rents to keep a roof over their heads? They cannot meet one payment, not to mention two. Will the Department step in? Will the Minister pressure the banks? Who is going to meet the payment? If it is not met, there will be severe homelessness, even worse than at present, in the very near future.

See this speech in context