Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is fine. I thank Ms Quinn for her presentation. It was very interesting. Many people on the employee wage subsidy scheme, in particular, as well as the pandemic unemployment payment are facing challenges in accessing the Rebuilding Ireland home loan scheme. They feel they are getting caught up in red tape and there is a lack of clarity on whether they are still eligible.

I would love to learn more about the national digital strategy and the national open data strategy. I am particularly interested in plans for digitalisation in areas such as making and paying for planning permission submissions online. I refer to streamlining that process and allowing for more online interfacing. Last week, we had other officials from the Department and from An Bord Pleanála before the committee regarding strategic housing developments, SHDs. The witnesses referred to planning and building in our regions and communities as being fundamental to what the Department does. I would love to hear the views of the witnesses on whether that scheme has worked.

Moving on to Irish Water, I would like some information regarding the role of the Department and the local authorities during periods where water needs to be shut off in an area. This happens for us in Lucan more than it should due to issues with the local water treatment plant. I would also like some more information regarding the role of the Department in helping Irish Water to grow its workforce. Perhaps the officials can clarify whether people are likely to be redeployed and, if so, it will be done voluntarily.

I noted the Department's briefing note referred to its important role in supporting and enabling democracy. My local council, South Dublin County Council, has been pioneering online activity in this area and an online portal is used to allow people to vote. Maynooth Students Union this week called for that to be rolled out further and I would love to know if that is in the pipeline.