Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent)
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I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing me to come in, and I thank the witnesses. I have been watching proceedings. It has been a great discussion.

I wish to focus on County Clare, which is where I am based. Recently, I conducted my own audit, via parliamentary questions, of State land in my constituency. It emerged that there is not 1 sq. ft of land – greenfield, brownfield or other – that would be suitable for the type of development that the LDA is involved in. What does Mr. Coleman think the LDA can offer a county like Clare? If he feels the LDA is more geared towards urban areas, does he a space where the LDA could have a remit, in particular in towns like Ennis and Shannon?

Shannon is a growing town of more than 10,000 people with a vast array of industries employing people from all over the mid-west. I met with the chamber and industry leaders. They conveyed to me that the housing stock simply is not there. The council, through its hard work, was granted leave in principle for just ten affordable units in Shannon, which is one unit for every 1,000 people. We need to respond to the growing population there. Can Mr. Coleman give his thoughts on that? Obviously, ten units would not be sufficient in a town that big.

Previous speakers referred to cost rental versus affordable purchase in terms of the space Mr. Coleman would like the LDA to be in. As he may be aware, cost rental is not viable in County Clare. Can he outline whether the LDA has alternative plans in areas where cost rental is not viable?

Is the LDA working with developers that are using modular housing units? If not, is the possibility of doing so being explored or planned for in the near future?