Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senators Lombard and Mulherin raised National Tree Week and spoke of the need to use forestry to offset greenhouse gas emissions. It is important but urban areas also need trees so we should promote their planting. The Minister came into the House for a debate on forestry following a request from Senator Boyhan and we will invite him back again.

Senator Boyhan raised the very important issue of the local property tax and I do not disagree with many of his comments. The Minister for Finance, who was on "Morning Ireland" and "Newstalk Breakfast" this morning, is anxious to have a real debate on the matter. The Senator made a point about deferral but the Minister has bona fides in respect of this issue. His approach is to keep, but reform, the local property tax and to avoid a sudden increase in bills for people. He wants to ensure valuations are based on a considered measure, rather than a rushed one. Senator Boyhan spoke about money being spent but money is being spent locally, though I take his point that more needs to be done and that it needs to be better explained. The Minister is sending a report to the Committee on Budgetary Oversight, which is welcome. I would be happy for him to come to the House on the matter. It is important that property tax is funded locally and is fair and consistent.

Senator Craughwell raised a very sensitive matter. All of us are anxious for people to remain in their homes and to engage with banks. I hope that a solution is found in the case he mentions. Finally, Senator Davitt raised the issue of ash dieback, which is causing a lot of difficulty. I will ask the Minister to come back to us on that, perhaps for a Commencement matter. The bridge in Newbridge is beyond my remit but I would be happy for the Senator to put a Commencement matter to the House on the subject. I am sure there are many fine Deputies in Kildare who could work with him on a cross-party basis to ensure the bridge is built.