Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy on this. We got an opportunity to engage on this in my previous role so we do need to rectify this. I am going from memory now but my understanding is that primary legislation is required. In my last role, the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, and I brought a joint memorandum to Government with regard to progressing this through housing legislation. My understanding is that it is his intention to get that passed by the summer. Alongside that, there was a planning aspect, where my former Department was engaging with city councils on the planning conditions attached to some of those buildings. I will get the Deputy a written note but it is still our intention to work with the Opposition to try to resolve this matter by the summer recess.

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