David Norris (Independent)

We are talking about the plain people of Ireland. I represent them too and perhaps more effectively than the Minister does now because he gave every appearance of giving a commitment that stamp duty would not be removed because it would go into the pockets of the seller. We are not talking about my understanding of it or the Minister's but about the understanding of the people his party claims to represent. I have a desk full of letters from people stating that their whole attitude towards buying was affected by what they understood was a commitment not to do anything about stamp duty, that they bought because they thought nothing would happen and that they are now caught.

Since the Cathaoirleach wishes to keep me within the confines of the recommendations, I would be very happy to second Senator O'Toole's amendments if necessary.