Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 337: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will investigate an unfinished development (details supplied) in County Kerry in order to ascertain if the situation presents opportunities to the local community in terms of work experience opportunities for apprentices, opportunities for sheltered housing for the elderly of persons with disabilities, community or business facilities or persons seeking affordable homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20691/11]

Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour)
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Question 343: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if any housing estates in County Meath are in talks to be used as training for unemployed apprentices in line with the discussions with the equity share partnerships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20843/11]

Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 337 and 343 together.

I am leading co-ordination nationally, through the National Co-ordination Committee, to manage the progressive resolution of issues relating to unfinished housing developments. I established this Committee to oversee implementation of the Advisory Group Report on Unfinished Housing Developments. While my immediate priority is public safety in Category 4 developments, as part of the work of the Committee submissions from outside stakeholders and members of the public are being considered and discussed.

I welcome any approach that effectively resolves problems in these estates while also supporting job creation and delivering a social dividend in terms of new social housing. My Department has not received specific proposals in relation to any particular estates; the Department has no direct control over unfinished developments and they remain within the ownership and responsibility of the developer or financial institution concerned.