Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

The point I have made is that 270,000 people have come into the country in recent years. This has put pressure on the supply of houses. I believe it was said in the Dáil last night that many 31 year olds are living at home with their parents who cannot get rid of them because they cannot afford to buy a house. Twenty years ago, they were not living with their parents because they were not in the city. They were in America, Australia or elsewhere. Meaningless statistics are now being circulated, indicating that there are more 31 year olds living at home with their parents. That is the case, but are their parents not delighted that they are in the country, given that they could not have afforded to stay here 20 years ago?

Market commentators including the Central Bank are predicting that, over the coming years, the greater balance in the housing market due to increased supply will have a dampening effect on house prices. We are committed, through various measures, to boosting the supply and ensuring that demand for houses is met in a sustainable manner.