Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

The 15% figure is not an insuperable obstacle if families want to hold on to the property but I would share the concern expressed by others in the House that unless we consider the issue, it may put undue pressure on old people to hand over the property well before they get to the retirement stage.

I join in congratulating Deputy Seán Haughey on his elevation and in tributes to Dermot Nesbitt. I recall being invited to speak at a conference organised by one of the loyal orders and being told as they said goodbye to me that if they debated long and hard before inviting me, they would never have let Dermot Nesbitt past the door. Unfortunately, that shows the very regrettable division and bitterness found within a tradition, as opposed to between traditions.

I express pleasure in seeing that a vehicle of public opinion in this House has made it safely through the port tunnel.