Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I join Senators who have paid tribute to Senator Feargal Quinn. I knew him well and as a matter of fact I worked in one of his stores as a student. He was a true gentleman and a very kind man.I was particularly privileged and delighted when he agreed to endorse me and sign the nomination paper allowing me to contest the Seanad election. It was a very kind, generous offer made by him. At the time, he was very ill in hospital. He asked to see me and I went to see him. He signed the nomination paper and duly got it here. On a personal level, I will always be grateful for the opportunity he gave me.

On 13 September 2018 the Government issued a press release and launched a campaign to establish the Land Development Agency which was to have a budget of €1.25 billion and to build 150,000 new homes. Today we are still waiting for a draft of the primary legislation required to give this organisation the muscle and teeth to face the many challenges it will face in land acquisition. There will be difficulties as the agency proceeds to do its work. It has a mandate from and been established by the Government. It is important that we enact the legislation to give it force, power and teeth to get on with meeting the major challenge and job at hand. At some stage, when possible, will the Leader find out from the office of the Minister the likely date for publication of either a draft scheme or the Bill? It is important legislation which is needed. At the time of the launch the Minister said it was essential that the legislation be progressed to give the agency the teeth and power required. Any information or assistance the Leader can give the House on the matter would be appreciated.