The development of new social housing homes, as well as the maintenance and upgrade of existing social housing, are matters in the first place, for the relevant local authorities. I am informed by Laois County Council that they are considering options in relation to new social housing in the area mentioned and, while to date my Department has not received a formal proposal, any proposal that the local authority presents in due course will be carefully considered. Equally, any proposal under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund will be considered as part of my Department's assessment of applications under the Fund.