Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I again thank the Senator. I will certainly take these issues back to the Department and the Minister, Deputy O'Brien. The use of PPPs is a good model and a good way of delivering. As I outlined earlier, the figures that I gave will deliver social housing to more than 2,500 individuals and families. Work is ongoing to progress further phases under the programme. It is proposed to announce bundle 7 imminently. The success of this initiative is evident from the high-quality houses delivered under the programme so far. The Stanley Street depot site is part of bundle 4 and is in the design phase. Work will commence on site in 2025.

I take the point on accelerating delivery. It is complex in terms of scoping out sites and design and tendering but certainly we cannot be building these fast enough. I do think we have to get this right. I will take back to the Department and the Minister the points made by Senator Fitzpatrick on the 175 social units and the possibility of affordable housing being included in the mix.