andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that Irish Estates Limited, a subsidiary of the Irish Life Assurance Company Limited, in which he holds the bulk of the shares, have increased the rents of their property to tenants; whether his approval was required for this increase; whether he has any power to have the decision rescinded; and, if so, if he will do so, in view of the Government's present incomes and wages policy.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Estates Limited.
9.
I am not aware of any increases in rents as alleged by the Deputies but I should make it clear that I have no function in the matter.
Is the Minister aware that a substantial increase in rents has been made by this company, that it is a company for which the Minister should take responsibility, and does he approve of a company of this nature acting as a rack-renting landlord?
I do not take responsibility for it.
Surely the Minister has some responsibility in view of the fact that he is a majority shareholder? Is the Minister's colleague not responsible for an inquiry into the affairs of this company and surely, in these circumstances, the Minister has some responsibility for its activities?
Does the pay pause operate in this case?
It probably does.
In reverse, in this case?
Wherever the pay pause applies.
Very nice alliteration.