asked the Minister for Local Government if he is now in a position to re-examine the law whereby rate collectors are permitted to seize goods which are not the property of a defaulting ratepayer but which at the time of seizure are on such ratepayer's property; and if he proposes to introduce amending legislation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Seizure of Goods.
65.
There has been no change in the position as stated in reply to Question No. 33 of 8th April, 1970.
Is the Minister satisfied that this is a fair law?
I am satisfied the law is essential at the present time. Changes will be considered in any review of these laws.
Is the Minister serious when he says that the law is essential to seize property which the local authority may have a claim against?
It is essential to operate the law at the present time. I am not in a position to make any changes unless an opportunity to do so presents itself. There is a certain amount in what the Deputy says; it does seem as though it could be applied in a harsh way and it could seem to be unfair, but it is a matter which will be considered when an opportunity to review these laws presents itself.
Are goods ever seized?
Sometimes. Actually very seldom.