asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that in a number of cases in Dublin buildings which were condemned as dangerous, and from which the tenants were evicted, were found to have been bought up by business interests some twelve to eighteen months prior to their condemnation; and that as soon as the tenants were moved out the interests concerned replaced these dwelling houses by office or other business accommodation; whether he will carry out an investigation as to whether, and in what manner, the firms obtained the information that the buildings were to be condemned; and whether, in view of the grave shortage of housing accommodation in Dublin he will take steps to ensure that dwelling accommodation is not replaced by large-scale business accommodation in this way.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Dangerous Buildings.
15.
There is no evidence available to me which would support the implication contained in the first part of the Deputy's question and in the absence of such evidence I am not prepared to consider undertaking an investigation as suggested.
As regards the last part of the question, Dublin Corporation have powers under the Planning Acts to control the type of development which may be undertaken on cleared housing sites and, as far as I am aware, such control is generally effective.
Am I to understand from the Parliamentary Secretary that if evidence is submitted the Minister will do something about it? I am amazed he has not had such evidence already.
I am open to receive such evidence from the Deputy.
And I shall let him have it.