I propose to take Questions Nos. 16, 25 and 32 together.
There are currently approximately 78,000 rent supplement recipients for which the Government has provided over €344 million for 2014.
Following an extensive review of the private rental market revised maximum rent limits were introduced from Monday 17 June 2013 until 31 December 2014. The purpose of the review is to ensure availability of accommodation for rent supplement tenancies and not to provide access to all housing in all areas while ensuring that maximum value for money is achieved.
Despite the overall pressures on the Social Protection budget, there have been increases in the rent limits in Dublin, Galway, North Kildare and Bray areas.
There are currently 4,090 rent supplement recipients in County Kildare, of which approximately 940 reside in the North Kildare area indicating that it is possible to secure accommodation within the rent limits.
Department officials dealing with rent supplement tenants continue to make every effort to ensure that their accommodation needs are met. In relation to the family referred to in the media, I do not propose to comment further on the details of this particular case other than to advise that the Department is engaging with them.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to media reports last week after the Dublin Region Homeless Executive presented 2013 figures to Dublin City Council, the detail of which has not been published. However, I welcome the publication of the First Report of the Homelessness Oversight Group which was recently presented to Government. The Group's recommendations will be supported by the Department in its roles in supporting those who are homeless.