asked the Minister for Local Government (a) the number of itinerants in Ireland at present, (b) if he is satisfied with progress to date in solving the itinerant problem, (c) the number of housing authorities who have housed itinerants in the past four years and (d) the number of housing authorities at present building houses to meet the needs of itinerants and their families.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing of Itinerants.
25.
As regards the first part of the question, figures are not available as to the number of itinerants in the country at present. The latest available figures are those given in the Report of the Commission on Itinerancy. The answer to the second part of the question is "No". Information in regard to the third and fourth parts of the question is not available in my Department. Local authorities are not now required to submit to the Department particulars of the categories of tenants to be catered for in a housing scheme.
Is the Minister not aware that according to the best information available there are still 7,000 itinerants roaming around the country? Is the Minister satisfied with what has been done over the past ten years by the Government to house these unfortunate people? We have heard plenty of talk but very little has been done so far. Has the Minister any plans for the future?
A certain amount has been done. This is a matter for the local authorities. Some local authorities have taken steps but, as I said on another occasion, I am not satisfied with the progress.
(Cavan): Arising out of the Minister's statement that he is not satisfied with the progress made so far in solving the problem, would he consider appointing what might be described as an itinerant officer or itinerant officers, or would he encourage local authorities to do so so that these people might be educated in advance of being housed and brought to a state at which they would be more acceptable as neighbours in an effort to expedite the housing of these people?
I am considering various fresh approaches to the problem and I will consider that suggestion.
(Cavan): Does the Minister agree that would be a reasonable approach?
It seems as if it would be a help, but it would not be a solution on its own, of course, by any means.