Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Irrespective of the Minister of State believing we have misrepresented the position in the amendment, there has been no misrepresentation because she has not said in response to me or any other Member regarding what has been raised that there is any intention on the part of local authorities to alter this. The only intention is that the housing requirements will be adhered to by virtue of this scheme, which is to be commended, but it is not a permanent solution. One cannot solve a permanent problem with a temporary solution and, therefore, the public should be well aware that those who remain with a housing need will continue to have a permanent requirement and the Minister of State has been charged with the responsibility to offer solutions on this regard. Unfortunately, this provision does not provide a solution. I remain committed to the amendment and ask Members to support it.

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