Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)

The Friday sittings have been arranged to enable the Government to show that the House sat more frequently than under previous Governments. It will then give itself a clap on the back for working hard and sitting long hours. Deputies had a choice of parking spaces today because so few Members are here.

Deputy McDonald expressed annoyance that Deputies were not listening to her contribution but declined to stay to listen to the Minister of State or me, about which I am annoyed. I say this with tongue in cheek.

I compliment Deputy Sean Fleming on introducing this legislation. It is important that its provisions are enacted. I hope the Government will not only allow Second Stage to pass on Tuesday next but will take fast and meaningful action to implement its provisions. Knowing the Minister of State as I do, I am sure he will meet the commitment he has given in this regard.

A number of bodies were referred to by earlier speakers, including the National Asset Management Agency. Many questions about deals involving the agency will never be answered. I was advised in a telephone call this morning that an apartment complex owned by NAMA in my constituency is to be demolished at a cost of €150,000. While I do not have the full details, I am informed it would not cost much more than €150,000 to make the building habitable. If that is the case, the building should be completed and transferred to a local authority or housing agency to have some of those on the long-term housing list accommodated. Cases such as this are a clear waste of public funds. I support the Bill.

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