Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

Many of us have proposed recently that the State should free up surplus land for local authorities. It should lay down strict conditions as to how local authorities should proceed. I am concerned about this and ask the Leader to arrange an urgent debate with the Minister of State with responsibility for housing. It is important that the matter is discussed. The intention seems good, but I do not know how it will work in practice as there could be pitfalls and dangers involved. I am sure the Leader will give consideration to an early debate.

I second the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by Senator Ryan.