Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join with all colleagues in paying tribute to all those who stood before the electorate in the by-elections, the European elections and the local elections.

Today I am glad to note from the NAMA annual report that it anticipates completing its work on behalf of the taxpayers prior to the envisaged date in 2020. In addition to repaying debt, I believe it is using its cash reserves prudently to add further value to its portfolio. This is providing benefits for the wider economy which are very welcome. NAMA has been in part responsible for a resurgence of activity in the Irish property market and it has made assets available in line with the market's absorption capacity and it is now in a position to accelerate asset disposals - thanks be to God - because of the improvements, as well as repaying senior bonds, which is most important and is in the taxpayers' interests. As we have noted recently, it has managed to dispose of a number of very fine hotels, the attached loans of which had been on its books. I wish to acknowledge the marked pick-up in all markets, thanks be to God. Long may that work continue in the best interests of taxpayers.