Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

I accept that such people are not in their own homes — they are in such accommodation on a short-term basis — and that they would like to be able to say they have a roof over their heads. The notion that the standards in the private rented sector are all bad is not true, as much of the accommodation in that sector is very good.

Accommodation alone will not solve homelessness. We must provide the supports which are necessary to enable previously homeless persons to sustain long-term tenancies. The independent review pointed out that the use of case management systems, the provision of services at local level, the effective operation of the local homeless forums and the establishment of a more formal and transparent funding system are crucial to continued progress. I assure Senators that those issues are addressed in the Government's revised homelessness strategy, which is being prepared. All the agencies which are involved in this area will have to buy into the process if we are to maximise the outcome of the revised strategy. The voluntary sector, including the organisations which are sponsoring the MakeRoom campaign, has a fundamentally important role in providing accommodation and services for homeless people in a caring and compassionate manner. I publicly acknowledge the value of the work being done by the voluntary sector. I know it will continue its involvement, which is vital if the Government's strategy is to be implemented successfully.

The voluntary sector and the Government are partners. The Government is funding the voluntary sector. We are working together. The Government is providing the services on the capital side and on the services side in co-operation with the voluntary sector. We are part of a single strategy for dealing with this issue.

The independent review that I mentioned recommended the establishment of a national homeless consultative committee, which will operate through the Housing Forum. Its aim will be to facilitate input by voluntary sector providers of homeless services at national level into the development of the revised homeless strategy and into ongoing Government policy in addressing homelessness. We will be making the necessary arrangements for the establishment of this committee at an early date.

Have I overstretched my time allocation?