Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In the latter case, this morning, the Cabinet approved a proposition for a new service to be provided, to be funded over the next three years by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, dealing with a code of conduct and the particular difficulties that have arisen with the number of mortgages in respect of which there has been no contact whatsoever with lending institutions for quite some time. A presentation made by the Ministers for Justice and Equality and Social Protection is designed to deal with quite a number of issues surrounding mortgages and the provision of a new service, including dedicated courts with named judges and days to deal with cases that come before the courts. The Government approved that today.

In respect of the 6.25% knowledge development box, it is the first that will be fully compliant, arising from the OECD analysis of corporate tax. That is following its way through to being approved and introduced. The 2015 Act introduced a knowledge development box in respect of inventions not patent protected but certified by the controller of patents, designs and trademarks as novel, non-obvious and useful. The Act provides a statutory basis for the certification scheme. I will advise Deputy Martin of the progress being made by the application for approval in respect of the knowledge development box.

In respect of the tragedy in Baghdad which, as the Ceann Comhairle said, was the slaughter of innocent people I am sure the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has reflected on the situation in terms of humanitarian aid. I will advise Deputy Martin of the response of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

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