Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

A total of 21 local authorities across the country have come forward with their own affordable housing schemes. We have other affordability measures. The Deputy mentioned the difficulties renters face in saving. That is why the help to buy grant is so critically important and applies to self-build homes as well. I know Sinn Féin's housing spokesperson is not here but that is a scheme he would get rid of and he would also get rid of the first home scheme, which also helps self builds. In fairness, some of Deputy Tully's colleagues regularly ask me parliamentary questions about how we can improve and extend the existing schemes.

Through the first home scheme in Cavan County Council, 23 homes have been delivered. In Monaghan, 15 homes have been delivered through the first home scheme so 38 families in the Deputy's constituency now have a home who would not have one if Sinn Féin was in government. The vacant property grant, which Sinn Féin said it would restrict, was drawn down by 15 and by 13 in Monaghan so it involved 28 homes - 66 in total. If we look at the cost-rental tenant in situ scheme, a further eight homes were delivered. They are the affordable homes that are being delivered but I want the local authorities to bring forward their own schemes as well.

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