I propose to answer Questions Nos. 201 to 207, inclusive, together.
The issue of ground rents is a complex one as indicated by the number of different aspects raised in the Deputy's questions. I confirm that the Government legislative programme makes provision for the publication of a Ground Rents Bill during 2003 with a view to abolishing ground rents. The fact that the Bill is included in the programme is an indication of the Government's intention to act in this matter. As I have stated previously, publication of the Ground Rents Bill is subject to the resolution of possible constitutional, technical and practical difficulties. The constitutional difficulties referred to concern the respective rights of ground rent tenants and landlords. I am sure the Deputy would want the Government to introduce a Bill which is fair and equitable and which will not adversely affect the constitutional rights of any person. We are working to achieve this solution. Consequently, I am not in a position to give a publication date at this stage.
I would like to correct a misapprehension of the Deputy in relation to ground rents. A ground rent is not a lease on a domestic dwelling but rather a rent which is a charge in respect of the soil or ground itself. The relationship between landlord and tenant in such a situation is based on contract and payment is made in the form of a ground rent. I am aware that in many cases demands for ground rents have not been made for a long number of years. In these cases, where a ground rent landlord subsequently makes a demand for payment, the landlord is statute barred from claiming more than six years arrears in the rent. I should also point out that section 27 of the Landlord and Tenant (Ground Rents) Act 1978 provides that a landlord cannot re-enter or take possession of a premises where the tenant is in arrears with a ground rent.