Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Like many public representatives who deal with a lot of Travellers, my perception is quite simple. It is that very few people in the Traveller community see the HAP or RAS as a permanent solution. They take it reluctantly because at times, it is the option but they do not see it as a permanent housing solution. The vast majority are looking for Traveller accommodation or local authority accommodation. Those who have been in non-specific Traveller accommodation are mainly looking for local authority housing and are very strong in their preference. I am worried if people are putting forward HAP, and it is mainly HAP, not RAS, as any kind of permanent solution. This does not just apply to Travellers; it applies to many people.

Deputy Stanton raised an issue regarding horses. It is a very valid issue. I remember making a valid comment that horses are to Travellers what hurley sticks are to many people in other parts of the country, particularly Kilkenny. I believe that if we are looking at horse projects, not only must we look at areas where there is Traveller-specific housing, but we must also look at local authority housing estates with a high percentage of Travellers. Is there a comprehensive plan to fund and manage a national network of horse projects so that we can put this in a framework where the horses, Travellers and anybody else who is interested in them have safe and well-appointed accommodation for the horses?