I raise an important issue in relation to lending rules. As the Taoiseach will be aware, it is an exceptionally important issue given that thousands of people who are paying high rents are, unfortunately, unable to acquire a mortgage as a consequence of not being able to acquire a deposit. This is a major issue in high demand areas, such as Cork and Dublin, where first-time buyers are unable to attain some supports as a consequence of buying properties that are not new. They are locked out of supports. Will the Taoiseach engage again with the Central Bank to look at the deposit issue for long-term renters? This is a serious problem and a major concern to many young people in this country.

It would be remiss of me, a Cheann Comhairle, not to welcome my aunt and godfather in the Gallery.

It is a family affair.

I also welcome the Deputy's aunt and godfather.

In the first instance, in terms of the lending rules, there has been engagement over the past year and a half with the Central Bank in respect of this issue. It is an important issue because many people feel that people have been paying rent for a considerable length of time and have demonstrated an ability to pay on a regular basis amounts far higher than a mortgage would entail. The Central Bank recently took its decision in respect of macro-prudential rules. Notwithstanding all of that, I point out that this year we had the largest number of first-time buyers since 2008. That is largely due to the help-to-buy scheme and to the first home scheme, which will also provide for that. I take the Deputy's point. This is something on which we will continue to engage with the Central Bank.