Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 February 2005
84 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to recent figures produced by the Irish Institute of Auctioneers and Valuers that the cost of building land was increasing at a rate significantly above house price inflation; if he intends to take steps to deal with this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3894/05]
View answerI am aware that the Irish Auctioneers and Valuers Institute, IAVI, has published results of a 2004 survey of its members purporting to show, among other things, that the price of residential development land across the country rose more quickly last year than the price of new homes. The IAVI suggests that this may reflect improved economies of scale through higher residential densities, low interest rates that reduce the risks of land acquisition and confidence among developers concerning future housing demand.
My Department has not sought to evaluate the methodology employed in this survey or the extent and quality of the information obtained. However, my Department will continue its efforts, through a range of policies and measures, to ensure delivery of an increased supply of affordable housing.
