Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I never met the late Gerry Conlon, but I sympathise with his extended family on his death. I did, however, meet Paul Hill who said on Sunday that those who spoke about Gerry Conlon should look in the mirror and ask themselves some questions. We know that Deputy Gerry Adams was never a member of the IRA, but he has had extensive contacts with people in the IRA for many years. Some of these contacts will know exactly who was involved in the Guildford and Birmingham bombings. Perhaps one legacy from a tragic past might be those who know the truth coming forward, even after the death of Gerry Conlon, to say, "We are responsible; we are guilty; we were under orders." Perhaps the Deputy does not know them, but perhaps his contacts do. Perhaps this might be one of the greatest legacies of the tragedy of Gerry Conlon spending 15 years in prison with Paul Hill and others.

I listened to Fr. McVerry speaking in respect of homelessness this morning. He pointed out the many issues which lead to people becoming homeless, including violence, alcohol misuse, psychiatric conditions, etc. As stated yesterday, €50 million has been allocated this year in respect of homelessness and a further €30 million has been allocated for the provision of facilities for those who are homeless. However, there can be no solution to the situation of homelessness which does not involve the building of houses. That is why those in the social housing sector and private construction companies need to get back on the pitch. Regardless of what is done with the current stock of available space, this problem will not be solved without houses being built first. More must be done - whether it be by means of expediting planning applications or whatever - to facilitate that. This issue is the focus of the Minister of State with responsibility for housing and the Government, in terms of both the provision of resources and facilitating what needs to be done. The committee with responsibility in this area is working very well and it is constantly reviewing the position. The answer to the Deputy's questions is that one will not deal with homelessness on the scale that exists in this city in particular without providing more housing, be it in the form of social housing, from NAMA or by some other means.

The deadline that was originally envisaged in respect of free GP care will not be met. However, the Government is working on the matter with a sense of priority.

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