Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is important to recognise that the model of delivery of housing is changing. In 2018, 8,422 additional homes were provided by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government. That resulted from local authorities, housing bodies and housing agencies working together and was funded by the Department. In the debate on housing, I wish to make two points. First, it is important to recognise that there is no silver bullet, as I stated yesterday. Second, considerable investment is being made.

I was with the Minister of State, Deputy English, in Cork two weeks ago when we engaged in a listening operation. Perhaps some of the problem is that misinformation is being put out to suit a political or other particular narrative. People should look at the budget allocated to housing, homelessness and the provision of housing. I invite Senator Murnane-O'Connor to visit Cork - her dear leader would love to have her - and look at the housing projects being built from the ground up under Rebuilding Ireland. The houses are not being acquired or bought but, rather, being built with bricks and mortar. People are being assessed by the local authority to go into new build properties. I will bring her to meet the people who live in the new houses on Tramore Road and many other parts of Cork city and who are delighted with the opportunity given to them.They take great pride in owning a new home in the area.