Seanad debates

Thursday, 23 October 2008

11:00 am

Photo of Paul CoghlanPaul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

It has been admitted that the budgetary arithmetic was seriously out of kilter. In light of the faulty assumptions and the changing figures, which are unfortunately still changing as matters are being rejigged, when does the Leader think there will be corrective measures or will there be an early further budget in the new year?

Recently, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government wrote to the county managers about some necessary modifications and variations required in county development plans with regard to the so-called locals only rule. This matter was referred over a year ago to the European Commission because it was alleged that it breached several internal market rules and was blatantly discriminatory. I accept that the correspondence between the Department and the Commission must remain confidential at this stage but if the Minister's letter to the county managers was based on a ruling, we are entitled to know that. I am unable to obtain this information. Could the Leader enlighten the House on the precise position? Is something still outstanding and ongoing or has the matter reached finality?

Senator Hannigan referred to the National Property Services Regulatory Authority Bill. I asked the Leader about the Bill a few days ago but perhaps inadvertently he overlooked replying to my question. Perhaps he would address it this morning. Senator Hannigan pointed out that he has visited the body. I have not. There is a shadow body in existence in Navan, which is good for that town, but it appears to be operating without any legal framework. I doubt that anybody knows what that body is doing. If it is operating without a legal framework, how can that happen? We need an answer in that regard.

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