Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

Today is a watershed for the country. A new realism is striking home and we will see that reflected in the budget to be announced later today. It is a watershed financially and socially. All public representatives agree that there is a new climate that is tough and difficult. I refer to middle Ireland as those with good working jobs who are now under pressure and under threat. They have real concerns as to the viability of their futures in their homes and families.

We discussed the Housing Bill last week. Housing policies must be adapted and revised on a constant basis to respond to the new climate. With house repossessions on the increase, other Senators have referred to concerns regarding good jobs being lost. People are concerned about how they will retain their houses and keep them viable as family units. We must all respond to that challenge. I include all Government agencies and local authorities, which have traditional ways and methods of dealing with their housing obligations to people. They must revise their policies and I ask the Leader to make provision for a debate on this.

For example, where planning permission is granted for a rural house there is a condition whereby a family must live in the house for seven years. With the change in climate, I know of families who have lost jobs and may intend to emigrate. This clause is seriously restricting them in selling their house or moving on. Real issues affect real families and housing agencies must respond to this. I ask the Leader to bring these issues to the attention of the Minister. We will listen with interest to what budgetary measures will be taken but we must all respond, including Government agencies.