John Cummins (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Fitzpatrick. Nationally, rural housing continues to be an important component of overall housing delivery. It is a vital element in the fabric of our society. I look forward to working with the Minster, Deputy Browne, to finalise the completion of the updated rural housing guidelines and to deliver on the programme for Government, which continues to support one-off rural housing. It is important to say that there is no cap or ban on rural housing as it currently stands. As I articulated in my opening statement, rural housing continues to be supported each year. As Minister of State at the Department with responsibility for planning and local government, it is something I wish to continue. We also need to find and strike that balance. That is why it is such a complex piece and is why significant work has gone into it. Even at the point of publishing and updating guidelines, it will still not be done. There is still significant work to be done in terms of engagement and stakeholders. I look forward to working with Senator Fitzpatrick and other Senators on that.