Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am sorry that I missed the start of the debate. I have been interested in the help-to-buy scheme since it was announced. I was a little sceptical as to the positive effect that it would have. I have a good understanding of the industry and the mentality of all sides involved from my own experience. I remain sceptical that it is the way forward. There is no doubt that people need help, but in a scheme like this it is so difficult to avoid the benefit going into the pocket of the seller. That is not the Government's fault.

There were a lot of things at play but it is not remotely unreasonable to look for a proper analysis of how it has worked and in fact it is a good idea. There are better ways of helping people in this area than by this scheme.

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