Mr. Joe Kennedy:

I will make a couple of quick comments that I hope can clarify some matters. There was reference to "new" dwellings. When we convert an existing building into six units, for example, they would be deemed to be new dwellings. The building regulations apply to existing buildings as well as new buildings; that is other than simple refurbishment.

We can take Part M of the building regulations, relating to access for all. We used to call it the disability provision. It has two sections, with the first referring to new buildings. The second section refers to existing buildings and makes the point that one cannot always provide the full requirements under the first and second section. It is a very practical way of adapting the technical guidance documents without having to have new ones. It is a simple provision that one would go as far as possible within practical measures, as long as this does not go below the bar of safety. That is worth remembering.

There is also the cost of certification. We are just finished the first phase of the Ó Cualann affordable housing scheme in Ballymun. We are working very closely to develop these affordable models. The cost of certification of those houses is €1,800 per house for design and assigned certification. In other private schemes we are doing, the cost of certification is between €2,000 and €2,500. I have not a clue where the figure I have seen in various posts of €30,000 is coming from. I have never heard of it in the real world where practitioners work. There is a cost but it is relatively small for what one gets. The Ó Cualann model is a great way of how to quickly improve the housing stock. We are really in favour of the intent of this Bill, especially if it is limited to town centres, where there is much societal benefit in bringing older people living in isolation in the countryside into the towns.