Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is not just about supply. The suggestion that it is all about supply is a false notion. There was no shortage of supply seven or eight years ago, but there were huge affordability problems and rents were very high. The Minister of State has told us that NAMA will build 20,000 units. I remind him that they will be built on lands paid for by the taxpayer through the NAMA process. Why, in God's name, are we not putting more social houses on these lands? Some 90% of this activity involves the provision of private housing. It has been estimated that each of these houses will be sold for approximately €300,000. Will the Minister of State explain how this will benefit the various groups of people who need a house in Ireland today? No one on the social housing list can afford to buy a house at such a price. Many people in other categories cannot afford to pay €300,000 for a house. I have no problem with the 80% and 20% rules that have been laid down by the Central Bank, but I am not satisfied that the Government intends to supply enough social housing to meet the needs of those who cannot afford to buy in the private sector.

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