Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

The House will have an opportunity to debate this matter when we discuss section 10. I commented on this matter on Second Stage and I stated that I am satisfied that the current statutory definition of homelessness which is contained in the 1988 Act is sufficient. We will carry out a review of the definition for operational purposes. Furthermore in the context of developing a new assessment for the need for social housing support we will provide for a nationwide consistent standard and an objective suite of criteria. The details of such criteria are best suited to secondary legislation and this is what the Bill proposes. We will have further opportunity to deal with this matter as we progress through the Bill today.