Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael)
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With that discussion in mind, I have a question before I bring in Deputy Rabbitte.

From an international comparative perspective, it is very difficult to pitch Ireland with any meaningful outcome. I have asked this question before, specifically about children, and never received a satisfactory answer. Broadly, regarding the 10,000 people living in unsuitable accommodation in the State, is it possible for us to look back at Irish history and determine what was the level of unsuitable accommodation? I know that there are too many on social and affordable housing waiting lists. That is obvious to everybody. They are too long. There are too many people in family hubs and too many children in unsuitable accommodation. However, what is considered to be an acceptable level? There has to be a level that is transient. It is similar to what we deem to be full employment - an unemployment level of 5% or thereabouts. Some say it is 6% and others 4%, but we know that the level is there or thereabouts. I would prefer if there were no children in unsuitable accommodation in the State. However, I know that it is a reality of life. There will always be people in transient accommodation or in need of support from the State or other organisations such as Focus Ireland. Is it possible for us to look back and determine what was the level of homelessness or, as I call it, more appropriately, unsuitable accommodation, at particular moments? I do not wish to diminish the individuals in question, but what would be an acceptable level in that context?