James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I understand the two year rule was introduced to prevent a flood of applications prior to the 20% social housing provision coming into force. I support the inclusion of the new section, but what we all need is increased housing output to meet the huge demand. There are 120,000 people on our waiting lists and we require upwards of 50,000 housing units to meet the demand. It is important that every effort is made to meet that demand, but we face a major challenge. Several bodies, including the Department, estimate that it may take in the region of 30 years to clear the waiting lists at the current rate. We must work on this and I support the inclusion of the new section. There is nothing wrong with it and it is a good proposal.