Micheál Martin (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)

Of those on the homeless lists, as I think that is what Deputy Tóibín was referring to, close to 50% are from the EU or the EEA. We have a growing population. The timelines as to when people come on to the emergency accommodation lists are a matter that needs to be examined in the context of the needs of people when they arrive in. The growing population has created new demands and pressures on our system. Of that, there is no doubt.

To respond to Deputy McGrath, while the Government is focused on affordable housing, it has to balance that with social housing. Getting more people out of the private rental sector and into social housing would take pressure off the private market. We are absolutely focused on supporting affordability and getting more affordable homes, particularly for those, as the Deputy said, who are above the social housing income threshold but do not have the financial resources available to purchase a home. That is a very significant group of people who need attention and supports.

With regard to Deputy Heneghan’s question, a statement was issued today on the private wires. A number of areas have been identified where this will be applied and legislation will be forthcoming from the Minister. That will be an opportunity to maybe broaden out some aspects and the breath of the proposal.

Deputy Ó Murchú raised CAS funding. There are a range of Government funding schemes available to housing, and there will continue to be. The national development plan will give a new capital framework for housing over the next five years. I have spoken about the tenant in situ scheme already.

Deputy Lawless referenced a whole range of schemes that he said were not delivering. I note that he said there were hundreds of applications in for the vacant grant and dereliction scheme. Obviously, grants take time to be paid down. It has been a popular scheme and very well received. It is proving to be effective.

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