Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Again, I thank the Deputy for raising a critical and urgent matter that will require a mixed response in the short, medium and long terms. I note the Deputy’s comments on the use of construction innovations such as timber-framed housing and the possibility that it may be used to meet an immediate need on sites that become available. While myriad personal, financial and social reasons can contribute to a person's becoming homeless, for those involved the effects on their lives are similarly traumatic and disabling. Societally, the ramifications of homelessness are equally destructive and costly.

More than €500 million in funding is being made available through my Department in 2014 across a range of housing programmes and I expect that approximately 6,000 social housing units will be provided this year. The Department is also committed to continuing to develop innovative and sustainable approaches to the provision of social housing. An increase in the supply of new social homes is necessary, and it is acknowledged. Every available, appropriate unit needs to be transformed into a home as quickly as reasonably possible. It behoves all of us to consider where capacity already exists in building stock around the country and to respond to demand. There are many vacant and under-utilised units, which may not be houses but over-shop units and apartments, for example. I thank the Deputy, again, for raising this important matter.

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