Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. This €155 million demonstrates the commitment of this Minister to the delivery of social housing. Senator Ó Clochartaigh can speak to the people in Sheridan Court, the people who are waiting for Dean Rock estate or the people looking for housing in Skehard Road. They know that this Government will deliver. We do not just talk or put up placards, we put foundations and bricks and mortar in place and we deliver houses. That is the Fine Gael Party's record in Government. I would be happy to have that debate with the Senator on any platform.

The number of social units being constructed in Cork is actually greater than the number being built by the private sector. That is a source of worry and I hope we can see it addressed. The other issue of concern to me is that last July, in a series of extraordinary meetings, Cork City Council passed eight Part 8 development applications.They are with the Department and are at varying stages of finalisation. I hope that as a consequence of this debate and the good work of people such as Valerie O'Sullivan and Brian Geaney on Cork City Council that the budgetary approval which has been given can be expedited. These eight Part 8 developments will create more social housing units and will enable people to come off the lists for Cork City Council. It is important these projects are expedited because people are waiting for these houses.

The Minister referred to affordable housing. We all want to see that addressed in the short term because we all know of people who do not qualify for social housing who cannot afford to buy and are paying exorbitant rents. We must urgently examine the area of affordable housing schemes. I know the Minister has plans for this. These are the people who fall between the cracks, and this problem must be addressed. I recognise that Rebuilding Ireland provides a roadmap, and the Government has increased the available funds to €6 billion. If one were to compare that with the budget in the North passed in the House of Commons, what does it provide for housing? That is a question that should be answered.

Rebuilding Ireland is a whole-of-Government approach to housing and ensures that Government gives significant support. That commitment was demonstrated by the Minister, Deputy Eoghan Murphy, in Cork recently, opening a wonderful scheme for young people in Bishopstown in recent weeks. These people were not at home or in college but who are now in college and are able to reach their full potential. These are young men and women who want to make a contribution, the Government recognised there was a need and came in through Cork Foyer to do that.

As part of the ongoing debate, we should look at the capacity of the construction sector regarding labour skills and financing. We can discuss banks and pillar banks and housing agencies. I hope the Minister will return to the House so that we may have a wider debate on future policy in housing and do so in a philosophical manner. Approved housing bodies may be the favoured vehicle in some quarters, but I believe local authorities are best as they can deliver in a more timely manner.

I commend the Minister on his approach since taking office. Despite criticism, he has got to grips with the situation and has displayed an understanding of the issue. He meets people and discusses issues, rather than asserting that his way is the only way. I have seen his ability to engage and discuss at first hand. I commend him and thank the committee for the report.