Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

With regard to the one, overarching agency, the programme board has decided to progress with 18 of the 32 recommendations in the first instance. These are getting acute priority. That is approximately 56% of the recommendations from the expert group. It has taken those on board, in its wisdom. The Traveller community wanted additional representation on the board to ensure equality and a round-table discussion. I acceded to that request immediately. I am being led by the board and the independent chair on the implementation. The agency is on its radar but it is not on the immediate priority of its work. I will be getting timelines in respect of the 18 recommendations. The board has had five meetings since March and has only been established for six months. With regard to the LDA and the multi-annual budget of €4 billion in the Department and Housing for All, I acted robustly to ensure that Traveller accommodation was included in the capital plan. Our commitment, as a State, to resolve the issues therein is very clear. The LDA will be acting on policy from our Department and providing accommodation for our Traveller community.