Joe O'Toole (Independent)

We are on a roll here between Connacht rugby and the Kilbeggan racecourse. We will be the saviours of the west.

We have referred on a number of occasions to the Taoiseach's continuing commitment to making some decision about the ability of the State to take ownership of land and to define the use of land which, some would say, requires a constitutional amendment and others say does not. The price of houses is driven by the price of land more than any other aspect. The Taoiseach's views are progressive and should be supported by this side of the House. I want us to be absolutely sure we understand what is being proposed. Will the Leader ask the Taoiseach to consider outlining his views on the issue to this House? He has spoken on a number of occasions about the small cadre of people with options, ownership or deals done on most of the potential development land on the eastern side of the island. This issue, which is crucial to our future, has not been discussed in either House, though the Taoiseach has commented on it. It would be helpful if somebody from the Department of the Taoiseach, preferably the Taoiseach – I am not demanding it be him – could come to the House for a debate.

On Northern Ireland matters, I am not suggesting we open up a new debate but developments over the weekend have raised issues, such as the value of life, on all sides of the table. I do not know where we are on this but the public is completely taken aback by it. Taxi drivers are referring to this country as a James Bond island. Perhaps what we have been living with for the last 30 years has just been brought home to everybody. I am appalled and cannot cope with the information coming out. I support the Government in seeking clarification on the issue and hope we will hear it soon.