Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator Darragh O'Brien's condemnation of the disgraceful attack on the President. Michael D. Higgins is a most respected first citizen, he is doing an excellent jobs and is above politics. As Senator Wilson has said, he should be regarded by everybody in this democracy. Some dangerous forces are afoot so we must guard against democracy sliding into anarchy.

This morning I want to give a general welcome to the Central Bank's relaxation of mortgage requirement rules. We understand its reasoning for doing so as wanting to prevent any further creation of a property bubble. I welcome the 10% first-time buyers' requirement.

As Senator Darragh O'Brien has said, the €220,000 limit for Dublin is far too restrictive. As the Governor has said, Dublin means everything in the housing property situation. One would hardly get a bird's nest in Dublin for €220,000. If one were lucky one might get a one bedroom apartment for that sum. What about couples starting off? They would be lucky to even find a one bedroom apartment for that amount. This issue needs to be re-examined. Therefore, I agree with other Senators that we should debate the matter. I would appreciate if the Leader could arrange a debate in early course. We should debate the matter as it urgently needs to be revisited.

I welcome the fact that the Leader shall bring in the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, in early course, to discuss the potential takeover offer for Aer Lingus. Let me remind Senators that there is no formal offer as of yet. However, we can discuss the matter when we are dealing with it.