Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Noel Grealish's point has been raised many times in this Chamber, on Second and Committee Stages of the Bill and in various other contexts. Strictly, it is a matter for the Minister for Social Protection. I do not deal with rent caps and rent supplement, but the issue came up in this context because this and the next Bill will facilitate the transfer of the long-term rent supplement scheme to the local authorities.

On Deputy Dessie Ellis's point, there is a working group that consists of representatives of the Department of Social Protection, my Department and the City and County Managers Association because, in the context of preparation for HAP, it is of concern to all of these authorities. I will inform the House as we progress and we will certainly have an opportunity to discuss these issues again. This is a very narrow, small, technical Bill to facilitate the charging of rent during the transitional period, but I appreciate the genuine interest of all the Members who have spoken today and on Second and Committee Stages on the issues raised. Unfortunately, I cannot accept Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett's amendments because I want to keep the minor level of flexibility in respect of the local democratic element and the powers of local councillors.

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