Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to take this opportunity to commend the driving force behind this Bill, namely, my colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Boxer Moran. In fairness to him, he has built his political career by being in tune with and responsive to the people he serves in his communities.

I agree wholeheartedly with the Bill. Repossession of family homes should absolutely be in every instance the last resort. I do not believe the legislation requires amendments Nos. 3 or 4. The Bill, as it stands, fits perfectly well with existing Government initiatives designed to assist people who are in mortgage distress. Some of the initiatives we have already undertaken include the Abhaile scheme and the Personal Insolvency Act, which has modernised the regime for personal insolvency and brought Ireland in line with best international practice. This legislation will fit perfectly alongside the laws the House has already passed. I commend the Bill to the House.

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