andMr. S. Dunne asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the fact that a number of Dublin Corporation houses are being used as paint depots; and if, in view of the urgent need for housing, he will direct that this practice cease immediately so that these houses may be made available to deserving families.

I am informed by the corporation that four houses out of their estate of approximately 50,000 are being used temporarily as painters depots. Since the control and management of their estates is primarily a matter for the housing authority, it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the manner suggested by the Deputies.

Is the Minister aware that this matter was brought up at a meeting of the Housing Committee of Dublin Corporation but the council and aldermen are powerless to deal with it? As there is a housing crisis, the Minister could very readily provide huts for the storage of paint. It is wrong that houses built for families should be used as paint depots.

What are the corporation doing about it?

The corporation are powerless in this matter. Would the Minister direct the corporation to deal with this?

I suggest the Housing Committee put their own house in order to deal with this matter.