Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I understand that the Central Bank is going to hold a consultation process, which will take a number of months. Everybody is concerned, particularly young couples and individuals who have perhaps been working for up to ten years and are interested in buying houses, be it in the Dublin area or around the country. We know from the evidence regarding, in particular, the two big banks that the number of mortgages being granted is increasing significantly.

It is a very important social issue. The submissions to the Central Bank and its consultation procedure will go ahead independent of this House but I would have no difficulty with the Whips discussing whether, at a certain point in time, it might be appropriate to have a debate. In the course of next week most of the time will be taken up with the budget but I would certainly be open to that suggestion. It is a very important issue. The Whips can address it.

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