Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have outlined my position on exactly why the CPO powers have to be proportionate. That is based on advice from the Attorney General. Deputy Gould is right that we need to get the increase in supply and capacity. For places like St. Kevin's in Cork, people should support housing developments and not object to them.

We have to get real on how we use State-owned land and on the effect that such land being activated will have on the rest of the sector. Land hoarding by anyone is wrong. These are the matters that have to be addressed. All public representatives have a responsibility to ensure that housing is delivered in those areas they represent and do not continue to find reasons to oppose housing developments for working people. That is where this legislation is significant. Along with the Affordable Housing Bill, this will be the most significant housing legislation passed by this Oireachtas.

The CPO powers are proportionate. Of course, measures can evolve into the future as with any State agency. I see that happening. However, what we need to do right now is to focus on developing the land we have. We must also ensure that, if there are strips or parcels of lands inhibiting that development, then the agency has the requisite powers to deal with it and it will do so.

I look forward to all Deputies supporting the Bill after we have concluded Committee and Report Stages. Everyone, to varying degrees, said we would need a land management agency. The main Opposition spokesperson said we need that but he does not want it to plan to develop homes. I am not sure where other Deputies are on that. Fundamentally, we need to get this passed to capitalise the agency and to get it developing the lands it has for social, affordable and cost-rental houses for people who badly need them.

I am not accepting the amendments.