Tom Shehan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Contrary to what Senator Michael D'Arcy stated, it is welcome that €62 million has been allocated to County Kerry for the provision of social housing. That said, however, I seek a debate on housing, particularly in the context of what Senator Colm Burke said about expenditure. The funding to which Senator Michael D'Arcy and I refer is being allocated for new builds, long-term leasing arrangements and the purchasing of houses. I am confident that the CEO and director of services of Kerry County Council will ensure the money which has been allocated will be spent prudently. However, I still believe there is a need for a debate on the issue.

On many occasions I have raised the issue of staff levels at Muckross House. I am glad to announce that funding has been made available for the recruitment of eight new guides. I take the opportunity to thank the Leader and the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Heather Humphreys, for their interventions. I also thank the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Brendan Howlin, who was ultimately responsible for making the funding to which I refer available.