David Norris (Independent)

Absolutely. We can argue the case any way we want but there is no doubt there was a change of position. The Minister has stated it is reactive but that is not particularly good Government. All we are saying is in justice, and to use a phrase dear to the heart of the Soldiers of Destiny, in fairness, some people were given the impression there would be no changes. There has been a change in the stamp duty regime and people were caught out. It should be backdated to that period.

There is a phrase, "The lady doth protest too much". I think the Minister blustered a little bit too much and I think I touched a bit of a raw nerve. I have no doubt, as a consumer, that the Minister's position was undercut by the Taoiseach, one way or another. Many other political consumers felt exactly the same way.