Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

During the years I have known people who, unfortunately, have become homeless. I know it is important to have policies that support young people as much as possible to stay in their own homes or with relatives if they are unable to stay with their parents for some reason. A structure that essentially allows young people who have left their homes to drift and move around - they may be on social welfare and living in bed and breakfast accommodation - is not the best outcome. I support a fail-safe mechanism which looks after young people who have left their homes for some reason, perhaps in the circumstances described by the Deputy. That mechanism is also supported by the State. As a matter of public policy, we should try to ensure as few people as possible experience the particular circumstances of leaving home. During the years Focus Point has been very aware of the need for long-term solutions to housing problems in order that people can have a place of their own. I reiterate that 42,000 rent supplement amounts have been negotiated in the cities described by the Deputy. While I accept that some difficulties are being experienced, I emphasise that the vast majority of rental cases are being settled and that people paying tax and PRSI are getting better value when their taxes are being spent. That is better than spending the moneys to increase the rents received by landlords, which is what Sinn Féin seems to be suggesting.

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