Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On the points raised by Deputy O’Callaghan, it is about providing accommodation and the range of accommodation. He spoke about new and existing accommodation. We have a loan scheme in place for Travellers to give them the choice if they wish to go with caravans. I got that scheme extended this year. I hope to put it on a permanent footing next year. I am fully aware of the work of the expert review group, and more particularly by Niall Crowley who is being appointed to head up the national Traveller accommodation committee. He has a great track record in the area. I appointed him in the last year and he is someone I very much respect. Sections 44 and 45 specifically deal with the provision of Traveller accommodation in local authorities, both city and county.

Deputy Ó Broin referred to the national planning statements. Section 24(1) states that the Minister will have regard to “the performance by regional assemblies, planning authorities and the Commission of any of their functions under this Act”. It is something that can be looked at. Good planning is good planning regardless of who it is for. We have a planning system. We believe it to be robust. We are looking at private accommodation even in the Bill itself. It is to get that balance. When I came into the role, I wanted to get the funding increased. I appointed Niall Crowley as chair of the national Traveller accommodation committee. I want to get the caravan loan scheme on a permanent footing. It is being extended by a year this year and we are looking to make it permanent thereafter. I want to ensure every local authority, and I visit them, draws down the capital. That was not the case in previous years. I am trying to do practical measures. I am very familiar with the Traveller community. I went to school with many Travellers. I know them and I know exactly the difficulties they experience. The Deputy is correct. Many Travellers are living in what we deem to be settled areas. Some live on halting sites and there may be that combination. We are always trying for practical measures. We believe it is catered for in the legislation. The national planning statements raised by Deputy Ó Broin can happen under section 24(1)(o). There will be a lot more discussion on it but that is my contribution.