Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am disappointed that Deputy Ellis is taking such a negative view about a positive proposal. I would have expected that he would be supportive of the speed with which we are acting and getting money from those who are culpable in this regard - namely, the quarrying and construction industries and the insurance sector. Homeowners' interests will be represented with great effect by Ms Caroline Gill, who is a former insurance ombudsman. She has a lot of consumer experience and has also been a member of the directorate of consumer affairs.

Contrary to what the Deputy has said, I will be proceeding as speedily as possible with the necessary legislation. For the first time, my Department will be acting to try to help homeowners who have been affected, which is what this is all about. In addition, the Department will be monitoring the industry and those who are culpable regarding the type of product material that was supplied in this instance, which has contributed to the homeowners' problems, as well as the financial institutions that will be making the necessary financial response to this matter. Although it is not directly responsible on behalf of the taxpayer, the State will be facilitating this process.

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