Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

Will the Leader ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources to come before the House as a matter of urgency? Over the years the Department of Lands acquired lands for forestry at ridiculously low prices from various people who had commonage and other lands. In some cases, Coillte is now offering some of this land for sale at exorbitant prices. The Minister should direct that lands adjacent to growth centres in urban areas which are suitable for housing should be released by Coillte at reasonable prices in order that housing can be made accessible to people who need it. This would relieve the housing crisis to some extent. Coillte creamed off €11 million in the past year and that matter should not be allowed to pass without discussion.