Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the 26 Members of the House who have contributed to the Order of Business and join in the congratulations to Commissioner Hogan on the awarding to him of the highest honour of the Austrian Government. I commend him. It is a significant personal honour for him and his family. I join with Senator Wilson, on this auspicious day, as we take leave of this Chamber for a while, in paying tribute to all Members who served across the House in various roles. I pay tribute, in particular, to those who have gone to their eternal reward. All of us are joined by one thing, which is our belief in public service. That is what we are trying to do in this House. On this auspicious day, I pay tribute to all who serve and have served in this House.

I am happy to take Senator Ardagh's amendment to the Order of Business. She made reference to the issue of social housing. There is a need to implement the Rebuilding Ireland programme. This is not necessarily about funding, but supply of housing. Senator Ardagh did not go on a full history lesson of the building programme that Fianna Fáil introduced in the 1950s and 1960s, some of which we are still paying the price for. However, now we must concentrate on delivery.