Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Rebuilding Ireland is working. The total number of new homes built in 2017 increased significantly to 14,500, an increase of 46% on the previous year. This figure continues to rise. The CSO confirms that 75% more homes came on the market at the end of 2017 than at the end of 2015. In the first quarter of 2018, approximately 3,500 homes were built. This report is in regard to Dublin but, as the Deputy will be aware, I am anxious of the need for regional spread. There is a huge opportunity for companies, multinationals and FDI to move outside of Dublin to the regions, where there is a great quality of life, more housing available and good education systems. We have a lot to offer in this country. While I accept that there are pressures on Dublin, there are huge opportunities in the regions. I am committed to ensuring that the regions get their fair share of any FDI coming into the country.

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