Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

I cannot accept this amendment. No framework for the sale of local authority apartments is in place. Previous efforts to introduce tenant purchase for local authority apartments was thwarted by the difficulties associated with the scheme. Work is continuing on a model for the sale of apartments to tenants which addresses those difficulties. We are determined, however, to pursue an initiative in the area as quickly as possible, but we must also get it right. Our aim is to establish a robust legislative framework that would stand the test of time for all stakeholders, namely, apartment buyers, apartment tenants who choose not to buy, and local authorities.

As I outlined on Second Stage, we have made significant progress in dealing with the complex legal and policy issues arising from the tenant purchase of apartments but it was not possible to finalise the necessary provisions in time for the inclusion in the published Bill. I am determined, however, to continue work to finalise proposals for a viable sales scheme. In light of that and in advance of experience dealing with the sale of apartments under any future legislative model, it would be premature to consider the sale of apartments in this manner. In those circumstances I ask the Senator to withdraw the amendment.