asked the Minister for the Environment if the Government has considered the recent report on housing produced by the National Economic and Social Council; if it is intended to make any changes in Government housing policy, especially in light of the report's finding that existing policy favours the better off; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Housing Policy.
8.
As the Government have already indicated, publication of the NESC report "A Review of Housing Policy" does not imply acceptance by the Government of the recommendations contained in the report, some of which are, in fact, contrary to stated Government policy. Nonetheless the report's analysis will of course be considered as an element in the ongoing review and development of housing policy.
As the Government have not accepted the NESC report on housing policy, when will the Government publish a housing policy of their own and address the problems identified in the NESC report? The emphasis in the housing area is in favour of the better off. The property market is running wild and putting the price of houses in the private sector beyond the means of most young couples, while at the same time there is no adequate local authority housing programme. When will the Government bring forward a comprehensive policy or White Paper on housing policy?
We always take note of things reported in reviews and reports such as the NESC report. I take it the Deputy would not favour some of the matters referred to in that report.
What about the question?
There was some reference to mortgage interest relief matters, property tax and the sale of local authority dwellings. I take it the Deputy will support my attitude in these matters. The rate of increase in the price of houses has slowed down.
That is because mortgage interest rates have gone up.
Order, please.
It is one of the downstream effects of that.
If Deputies wish to put a supplementary question they should rise in their places and do so in the proper fashion.
I might agree with some of the Minister's positions on housing if I knew what they were.
A question, please. I want to make some progress.
It is the same question. When are we——
Repetition is not in order.
The Minister did not answer my question. I asked him when we would see Government policy on housing.
Resume your seat, please.