Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have concerns about CPO powers which are so important. Ms Graham has said the LDA works with the local authorities. What consultation has taken place between the local authorities and the LDA? I ask because this is about supply and land available for building. I always say Dublin always seems to be the focus. In his opening statement Mr. Coleman said the LDA was working on eight sites in Dublin, Cork and Naas. It is important, however, that he explain what is happening.

I always say we must work together. Can the LDA assure the public that, in working with the local authorities and adhering to development plans, local area plans and national planning policies, it can make an effective change in housing supply? That is a huge question. It is important that we do not just create a new agency with many great staff working to achieve very little; the LDA needs to ensure all land across the country is utilised and not caught up in red tape. What exactly are the criteria in that regard? The Government launched the agency last year, yet it was not put on a legal footing. There were websites, appointments made through the board and promises, but, again, Mr. Coleman might come back to me on what exactly will happen from here on. Before the summer recess, some of us asked for a list of lands held by the 31 local authorities at which the agency was looking. It was said everything was sensitive, which I understand, but the LDA's biggest role is to provide information to ensure transparency. If we get that, at least we will be able to go back with our concerns to the people for whom we work. However, the agency was set up a year ago and there is still no information. We do not need to start on that foot. It is not good.

Perhaps the delegates might come back to me with the answers to those questions.