asked the Minister for the Environment if he will arrange to have the present outmoded derelict sites legislation changed so as to expedite the taking over of such sites by local authorities when carrying out development.

Considerable progress has been made in my Department on the preparation of proposals to amend and consolidate the law in relation to the acquisition, use and disposal of land by local authorities and the process by which local authorities acquire land compulsorily. I intend that these proposals will provide for a speedier and more streamlined process for the compulsory purchase of land, including derelict sites.

Does the Minister intend to include derelict buildings which are a serious problem in Dublin city?

Yes. As I said, the proposals which I will be bringing forward shortly will provide a speedier and more streamlined process for the compulsory purchase of land, including derelict sites.