Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I recognise the Deputy's concerns and those of the people living in Naas. I understand his frustration regarding the fact that the issue has gone on so long but I assure him that I know how a town centre can be a magnet for communities and can draw people into it. However, as indicated earlier, it would be inappropriate for the Minister to become involved or make any further comments on the matter while a number of processes are under way. Regarding the availability of only one individual arbitrator across the entire State and the insurance backlog, the Minister has no role in this matter, and I am informed that my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, has no official role in the matter either. The appointment of a property arbitrator is a matter for the reference committee. This is a statutory committee consisting of the Chief Justice, the president of the High Court and the president of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland under the Property Values (Arbitrations and Appeals) Rules 1961. It is the reference committee that is charged with appointing one or more persons as property arbitrators.

I again concur with what the Deputy has said and I will bring his concerns to the attention of the Minister, who, unfortunately, could not be here this evening.

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