Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

Some have merit and others have not. Fundamentally, we are not just considering different proposals but trying all the time to increase our resources. A sum of €1.3 billion has been allocated this year for Exchequer-funded housing.

We are considering other proposals but we must ascertain whether they represent good long-term value. They can sometimes look very attractive and innovative but can also be very simplistic. We must consider the long-term benefits of the suggestions. Although they might provide housing in the shorter term, they must also represent good value to the taxpayer. Every angle of the proposals must be considered.

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