Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I second the amendment. The Minister said yesterday that the most important exemption by far relates to principal private residences. He also dealt with the issue raised by Senator Paudie Coffey. It is important that we nail the definition of principal primary residence. I do not believe it is the Minister's intention in this legislation to penalise the elderly - that would not be his form given his political philosophy - but consider what was unearthed in the Bill yesterday by Senator Coffey. We must put people's minds at ease. If, God forbid, I am put into a nursing home 20 years hence and my private residence lies idle, the Bill can be interpreted to mean that the €200 charge would apply.

The Minister and his spokesman last night accused Fine Gael of playing politics with this, or said something to that effect. The Minister said during yesterday's debate that the charge will not apply to the principal private residence but I contend that the nursing home, maisonette or granny flat should also be exempt. It is important that the Bill leaves the Seanad with the anomaly and ambiguity cleared up. The language used in a Bill is important and rushed legislation is not good legislation. There has been much confusion and uncertainty. I hope the Minister will allay that concern tonight. We are being helpful in putting forward this amendment. It is drafted in explicit and simple language which will avoid confusion, allay the fears of many and put paid to the idea that we are imposing a tax on somebody for getting old. I hope the Minister's reply is positive.