Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The Minister of State outlined a very rosy picture as regards matters relating to housing, particularly when he is aware that many local authorities will not engage in any new housing starts during the current year and will merely be asked to complete those that are already under construction. There will not be any new initiatives. My local authority was directed by the Department to commence two schemes in 2007 but it has now been told not to do so. If these schemes had proceeded, a further 32 houses would have been built in the two communities to which they relate. Cutbacks are taking place.

Will the Minister of State accept responsibility for the fact that Dublin City Council will this week close down its affordable housing list? Last year, only 260 affordable houses were provided and the number of houses built has plummeted from a figure of 722 in 2005. Will the Minister of State acknowledge that there has been a major reduction in the number of housing starts in the public sector this year? Is he contemplating introducing any new initiatives to assist first-time buyers who are particularly interested in getting their feet on the property ladder?

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