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

As stated, some banks are already providing bridging loans by way of support. That is probably the best way forward to address the issue.

The local authority purchase and renovation loan is expected to be implemented in mid-July, which is positive.

The other question was on whether there are vacant homes officers in every local authority. I think they are almost all covered. We are working to achieve an interdisciplinary approach, with town centre first officers, vacant homes officers and such staff. In conjunction with the Heritage Council, we have been trying to have an architectural conservation officer in every local authority.