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

I thank the Minister of State. His passion and dedication to this area really shines and I know he will make a huge difference. It is needed. It is really positive that the €14.5 million budget was fully used by local authorities last year. It is very encouraging that we are on track to do the same again this year. I am really pleased that the expert review group is making such progress on so many of its recommendations. I commend the Minister of State on the pilot caravan loan scheme and it being rolled-out further next year.

The Minister of State mentioned a couple of times that data remains an issue. What plans are in place to resolve that? The Traveller identifier is in a similar area. Can the Minister of State update the committee on what role that will play? Is budget required for that?

The report sought a 50% increase in the funding allocation for the management and maintenance of Traveller-specific accommodation. What is likely to happen there? We all want to make sure these sites are as safe and homely as possible.

I know there have been many circulars on this issue but has the Minister of State written to local authorities outside of those and if so, is there anything he can share with the committee arising from that?