Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

Amendments in the names of a number of Senators on the issue of tenancy support services were tabled and discussed on Committee Stage. The amendments sought to make provision for housing authorities to undertake to offer tenancy services in the sense of providing support to tenants to sustain and continue with their tenancies. As promised on Committee Stage, I have examined this matter with Parliamentary Counsel. However, in the time available it has not been possible to resolve the issue satisfactorily. As Senators are aware, housing authorities already undertake activities such as tenant training in estate management, the production of tenant handbooks and the employment of tenant liaison officers. Finance is available from my Department for these activities.

It is important to define carefully what is meant by tenancy support services, however, if that activity is to be added to the listing in section 10 of housing services authorities may provide in the performance of their functions under the Housing Acts. As the amendment stands, the concept is too vague to include as a function related to the provision of housing services and clarity as to the nature, extent and scope of the proposed services would be required. The proposed function in this regard would need to be developed further before it could be included in an amendment to the Bill. I hope to do that during the passage of the Bill through the Lower House. I cannot accept the amendment at this stage.