Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

The purpose of section 10 is to provide a summary of the main functions of the housing authorities and to act as a lead-in provision to the requirement to make housing service plans as provided for in sections 14 to 18. While I appreciate the objective of the proposed amendment, it would not have the impact envisaged by the Senator. It could oblige an authority to put in train arrangements to deliver support which is not required. I consider the most appropriate way to proceed in this area is to develop procedures whereby an individual or household can apply for social housing support, have their eligibility and need for support assessed and determined in a consistent and fair manner and be allocated to dwellings appropriate to their needs in good time. The provisions of the Bill, including section 10, provide for a coherent set of arrangements for achieving this and I cannot accept the proposed amendment which, if made, would not add to this process. I call on the Senator to withdraw the amendment.