Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Many of my points have already been raised. I disagree with the abolition of Part V and the rule on providing 20% for social housing. Not only does the rule provide homes, but some of the best estates throughout the country are places where Part V was at 20%. I agree that if it is to be replaced by a levy there is no guarantee the money will be spent on social housing.

Labour costs and wages were mentioned. The average worker in the sector is not a millionaire. We need to be strong on that point. People working in the sector have suffered many wage decreases and many, in particular those in rural areas, are unemployed and may never have an opportunity to re-enter it. I do not want the impression to be given that the cost of building only involves labour costs because it certainly does not.

Urban regeneration is a good idea. We know part of the problem is the supply of housing, but we also know there are a large amount of vacant properties in rural and urban areas. Regeneration would be great for many villages and towns. It would increase employment and activity. I would like the witnesses to give us more information on how they see that working. They may not have the information with them today, but I ask them to forward it to the committee. It is an excellent idea. Not only is it more immediate for those who are facing homelessness or are currently homeless, it also feeds into a wider social argument about regenerating our towns and villages. Any constituency with a mix of urban and rural areas will have places that have become like ghost towns. I would like more information on how regeneration would work in practice.