Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

I accept that some people on basic wages are under pressure. For those who cannot afford homes under the affordable homes scheme, the budget for social housing is almost €2 billion. Many affordable homes are available for sale at prices under €200,000. Those who earn €30,000 manage to buy these.

Some of the problem is due to financial institutions shovelling out money and giving too much. If builders and developers see that people get loans for any amount they increase the price. Financial institutions get publicity from press releases that hype the situation and create demand.

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