John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

I will go through some of the issues raised by the Deputy. On a previous occasion Deputy Hogan asked about the housing capital programme. In broad terms, €1.4 billion of Exchequer capital funding is available for housing in 2009. We must work towards the fullest achievement of our broad range of housing objectives against the background of the significantly altered economic context. The approach must involve maintaining momentum in meeting social housing needs against a background of significantly increased pressures.

The 2009 provision of over €500 million will meet the ongoing commitments for some 150 schemes in progress under the water services investment programme and provide for continued investment under the rural water programme. Prudent management and profiling of the highest priorities will allow us to commence in 2009 on some new schemes and I will be examining the position closely in light of the final budgetary position which is currently being determined.

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