Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy asked me a question; I am just trying to give him my answer. He can like it or not but I am just giving it to him. My answer is as follows: we have taken a number of measures when it comes to protecting homes and newly built homes, including on stamp duty and as regards planning permissions. We also need private investment, though, and rental properties, and we need to look at a diversity of supply. This Government has seen a very significant increase in the number of homes available to buy. That is a trajectory we want to continue on, and we published new housing targets, but there is also a role for private investment, and the Housing Commission itself says that.

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