Mr. Declan Dunne:

We are happy to answer the question which I would like to direct to Mr. O'Gorman, chief executive of Clúid Housing. I thank the Senator very much for her positive comments which we appreciate. We have a really close relationship with local authorities which we hold in high regard. We could do nothing without them. The councillors or members set the development plan for each county and we work with the executive. Councillors decide the priorities. The local authority is the planning authority for the area and makes allocations. We play a small part in supporting it to achieve its objectives in the county and are very happy to do so. In practical terms, it establishes the level of need and demand in its area is looking at the population. It then decides whether there is a role for it or us to play.

Rebuilding Ireland calls for us to account for one third, not two thirds, of overall housing provision. We are happy to do as requested. The local authorities play a very large and important role, which we recognise.

I will hand over to Mr. O'Gorman who will talk about some of the details.