Will the Taoiseach confirm that it is the Government's intention to let the blanket ban on evictions and rent increases fall just ten days after the 5 km restriction is lifted, in other words, on 22 April? Does the Taoiseach have any concerns about a tsunami of evictions this summer if the blanket ban is lifted on 22 April and the ban more generally is lifted three months later on 22 July? Given that rents rose nationally during a year when a ban on rent increases was in play, for example, 4.5% in our city of Cork, is the Taoiseach in any way concerned that lifting the ban on rent increases will result in very sharp rent hikes right across the State in the second half of this year?

To be fair to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy O'Brien, the protection of tenants has been a cornerstone of his policies so far. He has brought in very strong protective legislation, obviously, within the bounds of what the constitutional framework permits. We are obliged to operate within constitutional parameters in the context of what we do. The Minister has pushed matters to the limit in terms of the degree of protection he can provide and that he will continue to provide even in the aftermath of the 5 km restriction being lifted.

I want clarity on one point.

No, we do not have time.

A direct question was asked, namely, do the rent protections extend beyond 22 April.

The Deputy is not asking the question.

I asked a direct question and could not get a straight answer.

It was a direct question.

The Deputy is not asking the question. Will he resume his seat?

This is outrageous.

I call the Regional Group.

Outrageous.

Will the Deputy please respect his colleagues?