Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the 18 Members here this morning for their contributions on the Order of Business. Senator Ardagh made reference to the European Committee of Social Rights versus Ireland. Senator Devine raised this matter on Tuesday on the Order of Business as well. I remind the House that the committee did not find against Ireland in respect of any violation of the many provisions of the human rights charter.

The issue of social housing and the associated conditions referenced by Senator Ardagh arise from the condition of Dolphin House and St. Teresa's Gardens in Dublin city. Regeneration of Dolphin House has commenced since the complaint was made to the ECSR. The first phase of the Dolphin House regeneration project is currently under way and on-site. This phase consists of a €25.5 million refurbishment plan. It is hoped this work will be expedited such that we can get residents back into their homes and into the area. The regeneration of St. Teresa's Gardens is under way. Again, significant funding has been given by Government to Dublin City Council for a variety of works, including moving tenants out, enabling works and demolition with a building element of 50 units in 2018 to commence as part of phase 1.

Rebuilding Ireland is happening. The work has commenced. The importance of community and of people living in their areas is very much to the fore in the policy of Government. Sometimes we see headlines in a newspaper or people jump up and down about reports being raised.