Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I accept responsibility for what I must do. Some €80 million has been allocated to address homelessness this year. This consists of €50 million, supplemented by a further €30 million for facilities and support for the homeless. Of course we must return to the practice of providing sufficient social housing to meet needs, but a process must be followed. No matter what one does, blocks, concrete, foundations, sites, planning permission and so on must be in place before houses can be built for the people who need them. This is the focus of the Government as part of the stimulus for construction and new planning legislation that is on its way. I do not doubt Deputy Higgins will have very valid comments to make on the legislation when it comes before the House.

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