Mary Seery Kearney (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I support the thrust and principle of Senator Fitzpatrick's amendment. We need to mandate the members of our local authorities to hold their executive to account in the performance of their adherence to the development plan probabilities and possibilities, and in looking at the provision of housing and homes in accordance with this Bill and the Land Development Agency.It is incredibly important.

To be honest, I would go further. My favourite line in the amendment is probably the line which states that a review will be conducted and published by 15 September every year. I would go further and assert that following up on that, league tables should be published and we should ensure that there is transparency around the impediments that have stopped development.

In the last number of years, the expenditure provided for Traveller accommodation across the country has never been met. That is shameful. This amendment would ensure that every year, 15 September would be a day of reckoning on which we assess progress and that there is a transparency around the provision of homes. We should follow up on that by ensuring that the report is submitted to both Houses of the Oireachtas and that the Minister comes to the House to provide us with an assessment of progress. All Members of the House, of all sides, should have the opportunity to ask questions and make statements and representations on behalf of local authorities and their members in respect of the issues that they have raised or the difficulties they have experienced. We must ensure that there is transparency and accountability in adhering to plans and performing in the provision of homes under both this legislation and the Land Development Agency.