Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I support the points outlined by Deputy Ó Broin on the price the LDA will pay for land. I am conscious of the domino effect the LDA paying over the odds for land will have on the price of affordable rent and purchase homes afterwards. They are intrinsically linked. It is important the correct figures are used for the value of land and the amount paid by the LDA. We cannot have the LDA pay over the odds as that will have a negative effect on those trying to rent or buy affordable homes.

A report came out today, which said that young people now live with their parents three years longer, up to 28 years, because they cannot set out to rent properties. The average age for a first-time buyer is now 34 and it has also increased by three years. This has ensured that the housing crisis continues to get worse, whether from the point of view of a renter or buyer. We are worried the LDA will not deliver what the Government says it will. That is why the price of the land has to be correct from the start and why I support Deputies Ó Broin and O'Callaghan's amendments. I ask the Minister of State to consider them.