James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

I agree that is a problem. It is one I am very much focused on tackling. I am examining several options to ensure derelict sites are used. I take a very strong view on antisocial behaviour on foot of having derelict properties around the place. It is such a waste. There are people who need and want the properties and who would use them. Whether one comes from a Marxist perspective or a capitalist one, having a property going to rot is simply wrong. The owners are benefiting from State supports in terms of utilities, including water and electricity, and roads and so on. I take a very strong view on derelict properties so I will be tackling this head on.

The total provision for Tailte Éireann in 2025 was €91.2 million, which is significant funding, but we are continuing to engage with the body. In fairness to it, it took over a number of older State bodies that I would have engaged with in my legal practice and that were very slow. It has taken on a huge body of work, with reform. Many of the delays are still historical. Tailte Éireann has done considerable work on its ICT and bringing it all together, so it will get there in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. I am happy with the trajectory.

I agree that the RTB needs more funding. We are asking it to take on an awful lot more work. Rosemary Steen is a fantastic CEO and she has been able to highlight a lot of what the RTB can do, and as a result many more landlords are being compelled to register, which they should, and many more tenants are able to exercise their rights. We are asking the RTB take on new proposals on tenure. I am very conscious that the RTB needs more supports, and we intend to provide it with additional supports.