Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I would like to ask about the Department's statement that accommodation in some decentralisation locations is "not currently affordable". When was the available accommodation in such locations costed? As property prices continue to fall, it seems to me that the excuse that has been offered — that accommodation is "not currently affordable" — may no longer apply. That proposition merits a complete re-examination. The Taoiseach has said that a review will take place in 2011. Will the Department of the Taoiseach be directly involved in that review? Will it be solely within the ambit of the various Departments, with an over-arching position being taken by the Department of Finance? Will the Department of the Taoiseach, and the Taoiseach himself, have a specific responsibility in respect of the review? Will there be any consultation with the Houses of the Oireachtas?

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