Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Darragh O'Brien raised the serious matter of the pyrite report, about which I responded to the Senator yesterday. I remind him the expert group reviewing this important matter is independent and the Minister does not wish to interfere with its work as he wishes to give it ample time to oversee properly this problem, which is of concern to everyone involved. However, as I indicated yesterday, I am informed that the report is being prepared and is imminent. Following its publication, I will provide an opportunity to Members to have a discussion on the report in the House.

The Senator also questioned the position in respect of the property tax. As he is aware, a group under the independent chairmanship of Dr. Don Thornhill has been established to consider the policy approach to and the modalities for a full property tax. The group continues to progress its work in a highly active manner and is using economic expertise that is available to the Government. This reinforces the need for time to be allocated to this subject, on which Members will have a debate after the report has been issued to the Government.

In respect of the Taoiseach, what Ireland seeks and so on, the Government seeks the restructuring and alleviation of bank debt. This is a clear answer.