Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

I agree with colleagues about the importance of this issue and the need to strengthen responsibilities in the area of homelessness. However, it is in the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of such policies and the budgets allocated that we will really see the difference. Will the Minister comment on this point and on the proposed monitoring and implementation of the policy? He has made a good start with the legislation. What strengths are in place to ensure these important matters are followed through? That will be a key issue.

Many of us believed the homeless strategy and the increased budgets to tackle homelessness over the years would bring about an end to it. Unfortunately, given the economic downturn and the pressure on families this will be a very real issue throughout the country, not only in urban areas. The way in which local authorities respond and how they are directed by Government will be critical in the years to come.