Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Covid has certainly exposed huge weaknesses, including health, childcare and a range of other things. There is no doubt about that. However, announcements were made at the weekend. Does the Taoiseach stand over them? Are we, as I hope we are, seriously looking at 40,000 houses a year? Is that a Government commitment? Was the Taoiseach consulted in advance?

What about the summer economic statement? Has work been done on that already? Is it on the way? Are these announcements likely to be included in it or is this just about electioneering? It is important that we understand where the Government is at in terms of some of these announcements. There was a very long list of announcements. The Taoiseach might address the reference to 40,000 houses. Is that a firm commitment? Will the Government stand over it? Is it credible that what was announced can be paid for by way of growth without tax increases?

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