Victor Boyhan (Independent)

I call for a debate on Delivering Homes, Building Communities, the new Government's national plan on housing. It is important we do not rush to any judgment, that we see the detail of it and drill down into it. It will take some considerable time to look at it over the next few days. It is important and we have to set it in the context that in the past 12 years there have been four national housing plans. I do not need to point out to all of us who are politicians who was in power for that period of time. I want to look at it and tease it out. We should have a substantial amount of time set aside in this House. We are full-time Senators. We have time and we can make more time. This is one of the most important issues. I ask for that to happen.

I commend the Citizens Information Board. The Minister, Deputy Calleary, launched its strategic plan for 2025 to 2027. We all know of the important work of the citizens information service and the bureaus around the country. Key to their work is that they are people-centred, empowering, trustworthy, independent and, importantly, they are accessible. This strategy will require a roll-out of finances and support to get it through. The Minister acknowledged that. He is an exceptionally committed Minister. He is particularly interested in all of this. It was launched in Buswells Hotel yesterday. I commend him on his ongoing support to the organisation and the many volunteers who work in this network. It is important that, commensurate with this, the necessary resources are put in place. I acknowledge the work and commitment of the Minister and the Citizens Information Board. I wish them well with the strategic plan for 2025 to 2027.