Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

To follow on from what Deputy Collins has asked, we are being told that this off-balance sheet approach is, if not the only player then certainly the main player, in addressing funding for the housing situation. The witnesses said their role is finding and financing solutions, yet we have a housing crisis that requires a wider look at how that finance is going to be used. We know that social housing is a vital component of that and it needs very significant funding. It cannot just be the 10% that has been agreed. While the witnesses say they are looking at financing solutions, there is also a whole wider social aspect and I do not understand why, between the NTMA and the Department of Finance, that is not being addressed when they are looking at solutions.

In regard to the loan portfolio on properties that are being sold off, we know this is causing great fear and tension for people who are living in those housing estates. We met the residents of Tyrrelstown a few week ago. I must be careful with the words I use, but does the NTMA not have a role and could finance from it not be found to secure those loans instead of where the loans are currently going? Could one of the witnesses clarify if I heard correctly that the NTMA would purchase housing if it was identified by the local authority? I was not sure if I picked up on that right. Reference was made to engagement with DCU. Is that funding for all on-campus accommodation?