Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

In regard to the ESB and other State companies and properties, we should remind ourselves of the words of the Minister, Deputy Rabbitte. He said that we need to manoeuvre within the parameters of what the previous Government agreed on behalf of this sovereign State with the European Union and the IMF. There are parameters, but I have no doubt we can have confidence in any decisions the Government will make. It is proceeding with caution and due care, and I think this is very preliminary.

I am glad Senator Daly has spoken. The front page of today's Irish Examiner contains an interesting story, which I have not had time to digest fully. I believe it also has an editorial which I will read later and to which Senator Bacik drew my attention before we came into the House. It relates to NAMA and a decision by Ms O'Reilly, the Information Commissioner. I had understood that body was excluded by statute, but it seems that she has made a decision that it is subject to the Freedom of Information Act, which is very interesting. While this may be subject to appeal, I ask the Leader to bring in the Minister for Finance in order that we can have clarity on the subject in due course. NAMA has a social obligation. It is important to have a coherent policy in the national interest. I share the concern of the Minister, Deputy Hogan, about the great number of ghost estates and unfinished houses that could do such good in co-operation with local authorities in housing the many people who are on the housing lists. Obviously there should be discussions in pursuit of that policy between the Minister, his officials and NAMA. I back the calls to invite the Minister to the House to provide some clarity on the matter. It is an urgent national concern. NAMA is not just a debt collection agency. The banks, as we know, busted us and made valueless judgments on lending decisions. There is much to be cleared up in that regard.