Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We know that the key risks facing the country now include the risks associated with the brutal Russian invasion of Ukraine. I know we will be having statements on this issue shortly. Of course there are also risks arising from the economic consequences and rising inflation rates. A key risk in Ireland that is of our own making is the risk caused to our economy, economic growth and jobs by the lack of availability of housing. This risk has been identified by IBEC and Grant Thornton as we saw in the Business Post last week. It has also been identified by the many constituents and individuals who come to us every day with enormous difficulty accessing affordable homes for themselves. It is a risk that it is being exacerbated by the Government's delay in announcing any extension of the temporary winter eviction ban. I thank the Taoiseach for confirming to me earlier that he will make a decision before St. Patrick's day. There are serious risks for all of the families facing the cliff edge of eviction notices at present. This is something that we need to stress. It is a risk not only to them but to us all as a society and economy.

I want to refer to the risks involved with climate change. We know immense risk is caused to all of us not only in Ireland but internationally due to the climate catastrophe. At a very local level even with the implementation of OPW flood defences, we know there is likely to be more flooding in Ireland. Many homes still cannot access cover. It is an issue for many people in my constituency. Will the Government introduce a scheme to provide for compulsory home insurance cover?

A further risk is an inability to hire staff in many areas of the public service. We know a number of unresolved pay claims need to be addressed. Last week we saw adult education tutors protesting outside Leinster House to get recognition for their jobs. They were also fighting for standard public service contracts. I have raised previously in the House the need for a pay rise for workers in the community and voluntary sector. The Labour Party tabled a motion on this some months ago. We need to see the risks involved in the shortages of staffing in our public sector addressed urgently by the Government.

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