Batt O'Keeffe (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

In addition, the Government is taking action to improve standards in the private rented sector through the use of only good quality accommodation for rent allowance scheme tenants; to improve tenant choice and provide greater long-term housing security; to address the needs of the homeless; and to support tenancy sustainment programmes to help persons make the transition to independent living. We are also acting to enhance the capacity of local authorities to respond to long-term housing need.

In 2005, the Government's main objective was to put in place the necessary support structures for the rent allowance scheme.

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