Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We have to talk about this Bill in the context of what it means for the owners of family homes. Taking the announcement today from Ulster Bank regarding its plans to sell a €900 million loan book with 3,200 homes, we can safely state that common sense dictates that if a property goes into receivership, then that is a precursor to taking possession of the property. This amendment merely seeks to provide some sort of a buttress to protect further the family home and it is in keeping with the original spirit of the Bill. It just seeks to add another piece of equipment or another tool to the Bill to protect the homeowner. I understand the spirt of where the Minister of State is coming from regarding his intention in respect of the Bill. We have, however, the ability within this House to fast track legislation if we so wish. I do not think that using the defence of an undue delay in regard to the legislation is adequate.

The amendment should be considered further, particularly as it and what it seeks to do stand up to scrutiny.

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