Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I did not interrupt any of the two gentlemen opposite. If they wish to continue interrupting me, that is entirely up to them. I showed them the courtesy of not interrupting either of them and, as a matter of fact, agreed with practically all of what they said.

Of course short-term solutions are required as well. Many with buy-to-let properties are doing everything they can to interfere with the process, using delaying tactics and every type of a loophole in legislation and otherwise to ensure they can hold on to their assets. In some cases, they are collecting rent from the properties in cash and not writing down their debts.

I am more interested in the personal or family home. No Member wants to see people being put out of their own homes. That is an absolute last resort. However, when one has a situation where people do not co-operate, engage or discuss options with their lenders, there comes a point where, unfortunately, it is a last resort. It always will be a last resort. The mature action we can take tonight is to work together.

In my four years here, this House has a proud reputation of working together on issues of national importance. This is an issue of national importance. I commend the Senators opposite on highlighting it. The more it is highlighted, the more exposure it gets and the more likely we are likely to get sustainable, short-term, medium-term and long-term resolution.

I find it regrettable that I was interrupted on more than one occasion for what I consider were non-argumentative comments. However, some Members choose to do that. It is a practice in which I do not engage.