Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

One should not confuse the situation in so far as rough sleepers are concerned and the question of homelessness in general. There is a difference in the situation that applies to those on the streets. The fundamental problem is supply of accommodation, be it private or social accommodation, voided units or whatever. People are entitled to have access to warm, comfortable and properly insulated accommodation, which has not been the case, and a great deal of work has gone into dealing with this issue and quite a deal of progress has been made.

It is clear the supply problems are the crux of the issue. A targeted development contribution rebate scheme has been introduced in Dublin and Cork. New apartment guidelines to improve the viability of this type of development are contained in the Bill, which will be passed this week. There are amendments in the Bill to increase flexibility when dealing with the supply of housing in the strategic development zones. The Ireland Strategic Investment Fund will support the delivery of housing related infrastructure in large scale areas. This will also deal with the question of supply. NAMA aims to deliver 20,000 residential units before the end of 2020. As Deputy Martin is aware, the Government increased the current allocation for social housing by €69 million to €414 million. This funding will enable local authorities to secure accommodation for an additional 14,000 households. It is not as if they have not been given instructions or the facilities or finance to do it.

The current allocation for emergency accommodation for homeless people has been increased by €17 million. This will bring Exchequer support to €70 million, which is up 56% since 2014. On top of that, there is funding for 35,000 new social housing units, which are to be developed by the State. A new vacant site levy will be introduced to compel developers sitting on serviced and zoned lands in demand areas to develop their sites. We have reduced development contributions in the Dublin area because they were a real problem for contractors. There has also been a reduction in Part V planning obligations.

Last week I visited the Digital Hub campus to see the new development by Dublin City Council. This intervention will be significant for rough sleepers. Up to 150 beds will be available in pristine quarters. When a person goes into the building, he or she will be met courteously and properly and will also be registered. A facility with a doctor and a nurse will be available as will proper food. A locker will also be provided to each individual and clothes and garments will be washed. There are really good accommodation facilities being provided with beds for males and females and potential to expand if necessary. The intervention by the city council in this particular regard is one to be commended and it should mean that there will be no rough sleepers in Dublin this Christmas. I cannot speak for every individual, however, because some people want to be on the streets and are in very particular circumstances.

On the issue of families becoming homeless because of rent increases, stability has been brought to the area by the decision of the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government and the Minister for Finance. The Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill will be passed this week and this will provide a degree of stability to the sector. The situation on voided units being returned has been operating successfully. I understand there are some objections to modular housing units being put in place for 22 families. These units would provide them with warm, decent and comfortable accommodation. The Government is concerned with all of these matters.

There is no intention of increasing the rent subsidy. It is necessary to deal with the supply question. The Department of Social Protection provides assistance when dealing with individual cases where the issue is brought to its attention.

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