Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There is a commitment within the Government to holding a citizens' assembly on drugs. I absolutely support that and it is one on which we should ask the Minister for Health to update this House in regard to when it will be convened.

I welcome the commitment of €8 billion to retrofit homes. It will allow people who own their own homes, or who own and operate public buildings and community facilities, to make those buildings warmer, more affordable and healthier, and allow us all to reduce our climate footprint. It is important those homeowners be supported through the one-stop shop. State-backed, low-interest loans will help bridge whatever gap may be left to allow people to undertake the works. There is a doubling of investment in the retrofitting of homes of people who are experiencing fuel poverty in order that those who are most acutely impacted by rising fuel prices will be directly supported.

None of us likes paying taxes but most of us accept there is a climate crisis. A total of 25% of our carbon comes from the built residential housing stock. This programme will help people reduce their costs, make their homes warmer, live healthier lives and take a bit of climate action. It is to be welcomed and supported and I encourage everybody to apply for it and take advantage of it.