Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Again, I give a commitment we will provide a breakdown of figures. As to whether they would have happened without this provision or not, I cannot give a reply to that here. Certainly, this provision was brought in to ensure we accelerate the pace of delivery. The point about public consultation is very well made and it is important that, whatever the project or plan is, they need to engage in a very positive way. It must be beyond tokenistic consultation and be much more meaningful. That goes across the board for all plans and projects by local authorities in particular. It makes for better outcomes for communities when it comes to facilities. Local communities are best placed to be able to point out areas in a locality where there are deficits or improvements that could be made around development. That is absolutely vital. I will come back with a more detailed breakdown of those figures and how effective this provision has been. We are seeking to extend it because it has been effective. There will be an increase in supply in 2024. We are only into April now. It is important to use every means at our disposal to accelerate the delivery of much-needed social housing across the country.