Larry Butler (Fianna Fail)

I previously raised the matter of empty houses throughout the country and it has now come to my notice that a substantial number, some 5,200 houses, are closed up by local authorities, with managers standing over such a decision. I call on the Leader to ask the Minister responsible to come into the House to explain why this is the case. People have been on the housing lists for ten years. A great deal of money has been allocated for housing development, but it would be beneficial if a small amount of money were invested in the refurbishment of these derelict houses to enable people to live in them. It is embarrassing for the Government and the local authorities that this has been allowed to happen.