Maire Devine (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

As the Leas-Chathaoirleach has asked that we not make budget statements I will not do so. However, in regard to Senator Reilly's point that we must stand firm against corporations and conglomerates, where are we at in regard to the Apple tax that we are refusing and appealing?

Today is World Mental Health Day and this week, 10 to 17 October, is mental health week. In my view, budget 2018 is regressive in terms of the mental health budget. However, I will not elaborate on that today.

I welcome Diageo's proposed city centre development on a site in the iconic St. James's Gate area, which is in my constituency, which will lead to a new quarter in the inner city in the Liberties in Dublin 8. This will be one of the largest developments at the heart of the city, fully integrated into the Liberties area. The development will include 500 new homes and commercial and leisure elements. We await the finer details of the development. This 12.68 acre site is being imaginatively developed to benefit the community, where up to now the only development has been of student accommodation. This type of development in a small area like the Liberties does not engender community spirit. This area, which was particularly devastated by social problems and austerity, needs businesses and homes if it is to flourish and thrive. I call on the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government and the local authorities to ensure land banks held by large companies not only in Dublin but across all cities are developed not on a potential profit basis but for the benefit of communities.