Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I agree with Senator Norris's comments in relation to Israel. I have previously advocated in the House that Ireland should play a role in the peace process between the Israelis and Palestinians. I totally condemn the actions taken recently by the Israeli Government. Because of Ireland's long experience of the peace process in the North of Ireland, we should encourage both sides in this process. While I have no problem with the current visit by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, it is very important that we also work with the Israelis on this issue, providing any help we can give.

In passing, I refer to an NCB report mentioned in the media yesterday. One of the issues raised was whether it was attractive any longer for investors to buy property for renting. A debate on housing has been sought many times in this House, including the issue of rural housing. I support that request. It is important that we debate this issue as a priority in the next term. Many people are pressed out of the housing market, languishing on housing lists and cannot afford to rent. We should do something to help those people. Housing is a right – it is not simply a market issue. This Government has to take on its responsibility in this regard, rather than just leaving it aside and awaiting developments in the constitutional committee. There is so much the Government can do now on the housing issue.