asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the recommendation of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions to the effect that the Constitution should be amended to enable public authorities to buy building land at a reasonable price; and whether he will consider the establishment of a commission to examine all aspects of the sale of land for building purposes and land speculation in general.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Building Land Sales.
13.
I have seen reports that the Irish Congress of Trade Unions has recently made a submission to the Committee on Building Land Prices established by me in January, 1971, under the chairmanship of Mr. Justice Kenny, to examine all aspects of the problem of building land prices, and that this submission contains a suggestion about possible amendment to the Constitution to overcome any constitutional difficulties that may stand in the way of a solution to the problem. I have no doubt that this submission will be fully considered by the committee.
The matters referred to in the second part of the Deputy's question come within the scope of the terms of reference of the committee so that the question of establishing a further body does not arise.
Will this committee be considering certain constitutional changes that may be necessary?
The committee will consider all aspects of building land prices and it is open to them to make whatever recommendations they think fit.
Including constitutional changes?
Legal and administrative difficulties can be considered particularly by them and that, I am sure, would include constitutional amendments.
When does the Minister expect this committee to make a report to him?
I had a word from Mr. Justice Kenny that he had hoped to make a report by June. As the Deputy is aware, I recently mentioned publicly that I now understand it may be later than that but the chairman, Mr. Justice Kenny, is aware of my anxiety for an early report——
Is there any question of an interim report?
——and if it is not ready by June then it will be ready within a few months after that. I have not got any definite information on it at the moment but I did get an indication that he may not be able to meet the June date which he gave me some months ago.
There is some urgency about this. If it is delalyed too long it will be merely an academic exercise because so much land will fall into the hands of speculators unless something is done.
I accept that there is a degree of urgency but, at the same time, the matter must be examined comprehensively and I am sure the Deputy is not suggesting that any group who are asked to undertake a task like this should not give themselves time to consider it fully and adequately and if they feel they need a few extra months I think I should be reasonable and accept that.
Was there a time limit set?
No, it is not practicable to set a time limit. I indicated in my reply that they will come up with an early report.