Victor Boyhan (Independent)

I thank the Minister of State. He has demonstrated the benefit of having a line Minister with expertise and knowledge. I thank him for his robust, honest and frank response. There was a lot of meat and honesty in it, which is to be welcomed. I thank him. That again illustrates, as I have said previously, the importance of having the relevant Minister from the relevant Department before the House. This is a clear example of an excellent response. This is clearly a Minister of State who knows what he is talking about. I acknowledge that because it is important.

My one takeaway for the Minister of State relates to the lack of a cap. I note the point he makes. However, there are county managers saying they are controlled by the €11,000. The Minister of State has clearly stated the parameters and clarified the position. There may be a need for further guidance to the county councillors. They are hearing one thing and the managers are saying another. The Minister of State might consider whether it is appropriate to send an additional circular or provide further information. I would undertake to circulate such a thing. It is important that the Department has clarified that point.

I genuinely wish the Minister of State and the Government well with the new national housing plan, which is being discussed at Cabinet today. It will be launched tomorrow. It is entitled Delivering Homes, Building Communities. I recognise that all of us, as policymakers in these Houses, must unite and come together with one voice to deliver new homes for our communities. I wish the Minister of State well.