Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

The information given was complete and thorough, but it did not include acquisitions. Local authorities buy approximately 1,000 units per year. If one were trying to make an accurate comparison between the numbers in social housing ten years ago and today, one would need to allow for the acquisitions. However, we could not give that figure because of the way the Deputy asked his question. Local authorities acquire houses through new buildings and second-hand purchases. We also need to look at the number in receipt of rent allowance.

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