Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am not being critical of the Department in this regard. Obviously, it takes the same view as I do on the issue. My point is that it is better for everybody if we can move from a contingent liability to an actual liability. Therefore, the Department needs those invoices to come in, now that the ruling has been made that will allow that.

On an unrelated matter, I would like to comment on the superb work that is going on currently in regard to dealing with private rental accommodation throughout the country. I raised the issue previously that the State is making rent supplement payments available to people who need them, but that there are concerns with regard to the quality of accommodation in which some of these people live. I wish to draw attention to the fact that the environmental department of Dublin City Council is doing great work currently on implementing the new guidelines put in place in this area. While some of the statistics on this area are disturbing, where in parts of the city up to 80% of rental property does not meet standard regulations, I wish to recognise the fact the work is now being done and being funded by the Department and that progress is being made on understanding the issue. This is about ensuring we are getting good value for money in the area of rent supplement payments and about ensuring people have access to decent quality accommodation. I commend that work and urge that it be rolled out across the country.