asked the Minister for Justice his attitude to ground rents.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ground Rents.
17.
The reply I gave to a question by the Deputy as recently as 28th February indicated that I am not yet in a position to make a statement about ground rents. The Deputy may take it that, when I have some information to give, I shall take the initiative in doing so.
Is there any further information as to when the report will be ready?
Which report?
The commission's report.
The Commission on Ground Rents reported a considerable time ago and from time to time various problems concerning individual groups of tenants have been brought to its attention and it has made recommendations on them and these are being examined at the moment.
Would the Minister say whether he considers ground rents to be socially just or otherwise? What is his attitude to ground rents?
In view of the collective responsibility of the Cabinet my personal view would be irrelevant, and it would not be proper for me to give it. However, I have views on the matter and I shall let the Deputy know them in due course. I am as socially concerned as is the Deputy.
If that is so, is it the Minister's view that ground rents might be considered a penal tax?
The Deputy should wait and see.