Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I welcome the information from Deputy Ellis about the savings I could make with regard to many of the housing schemes. I think he should be in the Department of Finance. He is correct that there is considerable waste of resources, and Deputy Boyd Barrett has also pointed out how we could achieve better value for the State. I thank Deputies for their words regarding the excellent work in this area of the former Minister of State, Deputy Willie Penrose. He and I have been putting pressure on the National Asset Management Agency to realise the social dividend required in this case. I can assure the House that I will not be found wanting when it comes to putting all the pressure possible on NAMA to give us the details of whatever properties are appropriate and in a suitable condition to be fit for purpose under the law to deal with the social demands on the social housing list. I assure the House I will report on a regular basis as to the progress or otherwise.

See this speech in context