Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

If those homes were to be built on an acquisition basis, it would cost in the region of €800 million and I am in a position to deliver those homes for less than quarter of that sum. These are new homes in perfect condition which will be inspected by the local authorities and people will have a tenure of ten, 15, 20 or even up to 40 years.

As regards the final question, I have not finally decided on the matter of lease to purchase. The Deputy will be aware, as a result of a question from a Member from his side of the House, either Deputy Hogan or Deputy Deasy, I showed how flexible I am as regards the scheme when I said I would consider a build to lease arrangement. I am aware that in some areas there may not be houses available for leasing so alternatives and variants are being considered. I am already in discussions with local authorities as regards the very question raised by the Deputy, whether we should move towards lease to purchase. I am taking into consideration the views of different local authorities and those of my Department.

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