Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I join my constituency colleagues, the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, and Deputy Smyth, in warmly welcoming the passage of Report and Final Stages of the Dáil consideration of the Landlord and Tenant (Ground Rents) (Amendment) Bill 2017. The passage of the Bill in a relatively short period is indicative of the cross-party support it has enjoyed since its initial drafting. I acknowledge the special import of the work of my colleague on the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality, Deputy Jim O'Callaghan, in regard to same. It is very important that the Bill progresses through all further steps in order to come into effect. It is not just the people of Carrickmacross who have been very much on our minds in facilitating the passage of the Bill, but people elsewhere in other settings and locations around the country who will, it is hoped, stand to benefit.

The issue at the core of the Bill is the outstanding anomaly from times long past regarding ground rents. We have to ensure that, like so much associated with those times, ground rents are confined to the history books.

This continuing anomaly, where landlords in external residence have been exacting significant demands and have undermined the ability of people in business to develop and expand their enterprises, has curtailed the potential of not only individuals but whole communities. It has prevented them reaching the highest levels of economic success. I join the voices of other Deputies in wishing the interests located along the west side of the main street of Carrickmacross every success in the future. I hope we will hear good news and that this Bill has lived up to its intentions and delivered on its purpose.

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