My question concerns housing legislation and homelessness. Over the past year, homelessness in Dublin has increased by 88%. The Government's commitment is to end homelessness by 2016. Will there be a particular aspect of housing legislation to deal with the issue? Last weekend, Fr. Peter McVerry spoke of the need to invest in the provision of housing for those who are homeless.

I do not think there is specific legislation, although the Government supports agencies and organisations that deal with homelessness. I have heard different reports from people involved in the sector who know more about the matter than I do. The number of homeless people on the streets includes those in short-term homelessness and others who have been homeless for longer periods. It is a matter that concerns me and I would like to think that we can call the agencies and organisations together to see how best we can achieve the objective of eliminating homelessness by the date we have set.