I have received notice from the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Deputy Sargent, that he proposes to make a personal explanation to the House. I have decided to permit a statement by the Minister of State and the personal explanation will be heard without comment or intervention.
Personal Explanation by Minister of State.
On 5 April last, I raised with the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government with responsibility for housing the problems which residents in Balbriggan in Dublin North were encountering with property management companies. I mentioned that Mr. Mark Colgan and Mr. Desmond Ryan were listed as directors of Brecan property management company. Mr. Colgan has made contact with me to inform me that he is not, and has never been, a director of Brecan property management company, nor has he any property interests in the Balbriggan area. He is not connected to Brecan management company, its directors or shareholders. He has also informed me that Mr. Ryan is not listed as a director of Brecan.
My statement was made in good faith based on information provided by a concerned constituent and with a view to raising the genuine concerns my constituents have. However, I apologise fully to the parties concerned and withdraw the relevant statement.