Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

Sadly, as I predicted, I am moving away from the amendments. Housing is interesting in the sense that, even when little money is available to be allocated, there is always a choice in how this will be done. Consideration must be given to the manner in which so much money is being spent on rent allowance, although there are other ways to spend the money, while housing people and their families. I await with interest the Minister's comments on this issue. While I will not comment on the specific amendments tabled by my colleague, Senator McCarthy, I will second them for debating purposes. I refer to the facts and figures in respect of rent allowance and seek the Minister's views on how the money could be used in other ways. While I acknowledge that I have meandered in my comments, the Minister often meanders to make interesting comments also.