The amendments made to Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000, which are contained in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2002, are designed to ensure that the Part V objectives set in relation to the provision of social and affordable housing are met. They will enable approved voluntary housing bodies, as well as local authorities, to provide such housing more efficiently and effectively.
I am confident that these changes, together with increased activity in the other schemes operated by local authorities, will ensure a continued good supply of affordable housing.