Mr. Paul Dunne:

I will start with the 2021 targets. On the provision of support by the Department for local authorities, we do not fully fund the inspection regime. We make a contribution of €100 per inspection to support them; there is, therefore, an additional cost on local authorities to ramp up the resources available. The incremental approach was adopted to allow them and the sector in general to adapt IT systems, look at efficiencies and a consistent approach in implementation and application across all local authorities. There can be recruitment issues in having the necessary staff. An extra €10 million would not be enough because there are many other issues that have to be addressed. As Mr. Michael Walsh said, if we could achieve efficiencies and have a proper risk based approach to properties, the target of 25% might be reached earlier or, as he said, a figure of 20% might suffice.

As regards an NCT type system, we will take a look at it. As I am quite new to this, I am not sure of all that is envisaged. There are different options, as the Deputy said. There are local authority inspections which could lead to certification. We can meet Threshold and the different partners to discuss that issue.

With regard to social housing stock meeting private sector rental standards, as I only deal with the private rented market, I am not fully aware of the social housing side, but there are standards and the local authorities are active in trying to improve them. They engage with the Department in a different forum from the ones with which I am involved.

There are penalties under the enforcement procedures.