Tathony House tenants
Mary Lou McDonald raised the risk of homelessness for 35 families in Tathony House and asked for state support to keep them in situ. The Taoiseach said the Minister and Dublin City Council were engaging and that every effort would be made to reach a satisfactory outcome, though the exchange became heated.
Are the proposed arrangements for this week's business agreed to? Agreed.
We will now take questions. I appeal to Members to be conscious that there is very limited time. They should try to ensure that their contributions are under one minute.
Comment on this
As the Taoiseach is aware, the 35 families living in Tathony House have all received notices to quit. The landlord is selling the property. Among the tenants are healthcare workers, construction workers and community workers. These families, many with children, are facing a future of homelessness. It is that stark. Dublin City Council has met with the residents. It is currently exploring whether it or an approved housing body can purchase the development and keep the families in situ, as social and cost-rental tenants. Will the Taoiseach commit to doing everything in his power to ensure that these 35 families do not become homeless?
Comment on this
To be fair, Deputy Boyd Barrett has been raising this matter in the House for about three months. The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage has engaged with him on the matter. As Deputy McDonald stated, Dublin City Council is engaging with the residents. Every effort will be made to get a satisfactory outcome.
Comment on this
Ordinarily, the Taoiseach does not answer any of my questions; now he is answering a question to-----
Comment on this
-----Deputy Boyd Barrett who, with all due respect, did not ask the question.
Comment on this
No, I did look at Deputy Boyd Barrett and I referenced the fact that he has raised this issue and he has been asking about it for some three months.
Comment on this
Yes, but the Taoiseach might respond to me.
Comment on this
Then I looked at the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, for confirmation and affirmation that he is indeed continuing to engage with Deputy Boyd Barrett on it, and Deputy McDonald, now that she has raised it, and also, more critically, with the council in order that we can get a resolution of the matter.