Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

I reject the claim made by the Deputy on this matter. There is not a glut at this time. As I explained in an earlier question, our local authorities have been innovative and in the first nine months of 2009 they were successful in selling 1,300 affordable homes, which is a success that should not go unrecorded. In addition, I have taken 1,300 units into long-term leasing. At this time, there are fewer than 1,000 units on the books of all local authorities and I am told the local authorities are quite confident of further sales in this area. On the suggestion of a glut, I am not in a position to direct local authorities to reduce their prices as I do not have the authority. The local authorities entered into negotiations and made contracts with developers.

I do not have the figures for every year but they were made available in an earlier question. I will supply them, but I assure the Deputies that the number of affordable homes provided has been considerable. The affordable homes partnership continues to play a supportive role with local authorities in the area of marketing and there is a special website for this purpose. People can also buy direct from the local authority and the affordable homes partnership has contributed in a positive way to making homes affordable.

See this speech in context