Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will ask the Minister to come back to the Deputy directly on that and to make sure that it is as good as it possibly can be.

In relation to what we saw on "Prime Time Investigates" last night, let me be very clear: people seeking money to withdraw planning objections is not acceptable at all. The Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, the Attorney General and the Minister for Justice are examining the matter. Section 17 of the Criminal Justice Act states: "It shall be an offence for any person who, with a view to gain for himself or another or with intent to cause loss to another, makes any unwarranted demand with menaces." We also believe that sections 6 and 7 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act may apply as well. It probably is the case that this is already illegal. Of course, evidence and proving things are a much harder thing. Perhaps it needs a specific provision in the Planning and Development Act. I know the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, is willing to examine that and to work with the Opposition on it.

The Land Development Agency, LDA, is ramping up the construction of new homes, in particular, affordable housing. The LDA currently has access to €1.25 billion of capital from the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund, ISIF, of which it has drawn down €625 million. It expects to draw down the remaining €600 million by the end of the year. It also has the ability to borrow up to €1.25 billion. For the LDA to carry out what it wants to do next year, and what we want it to do next year, it will require additional finance. It will not need €6 billion or €3 billion, though, for next year. What we are working out now is how much the LDA needs and when, in particular for next year.

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