The need for farmers to provide housing for their families is recognised within rural communities. It is often not possible for an entire family to live off the land, but many farmers want to provide sites for their sons and daughters who work in neighbouring towns. While a site in a town might cost €50,000 to €60,000, a young person could be offered a site on his or her parents' farm. Many such people are being frustrated in their efforts to obtain planning permission because planning regulations are becoming more and more restrictive. It is possible to allow people to live and raise their families in their native area without damaging the beauty of the countryside. The Department of the Environment and Local Government must find a way to facilitate such applicants.