Local authorities have been instructed by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to purchase homes where a tenant has a notice to quit, which will allow them to stay in situ. Could a circular be issued to instruct local authorities to purchase homes outside the scheme of letting, subject to price and condition? There is an ad hoc approach by local authorities across the country and more certainty is needed given the crisis we are in.

I will again have to refer the Deputy's question to the relevant Minister because it relates to a specific policy issue, which he would have to consider. I agree with the Deputy. It was a welcome decision to allow local authorities greater flexibility. As I stated earlier in response to Deputy Mattie McGrath, we must be innovative and quick in how we address the housing crisis we face.