Jerry Buttimer (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Murphy made some very interesting points that require us as a Government to listen. I reassure him that we are committed to addressing the issue of vacancy. I thank him and Senator Duffy for their advocacy and work in this regard. We know the success of the vacant property grant - we have seen it throughout the country. We should always look at how we can improve the effectiveness and delivery of the scheme. I will bring Deputy Murphy's points back. It is worth saying that it is not proposed to introduce a system of completion certificates because the Government feels it is not necessary at the moment. I will take the points Senator Murphy has made back to the Department. The grant is making a real difference, as we both agree, in urban and rural areas. We will continue to support bringing many properties back into use as homes. I am happy to talk to the Senator further on this matter, because there is merit in what he said. I thank him for raising it.