Research commissioned by Limerick Chamber of Commerce revealed that of the houses purchased in the State over the past two years, 40% were purchased either by approved housing bodies or other entities supported by the State. Contrary to what we hear from some on the other side of the House, that represents substantial public investment in the private housing sector, which is to be welcomed. However, the comparable figure in Limerick city is 60%. In other words, State entities and approved housing bodies purchased over 60% of houses that were for sale in Limerick city over the past two years. That is creating tremendous pressure for potential owner-occupiers, namely those who want to buy their own houses and live private estates.

This has led to a number of very undesirable consequences, not least the massive increase in rents in Limerick over the past five years. Will the Department engage with Limerick City and County Council to redress this imbalance?

If it is 60%, that is too high. It creates unfair pressure for those, namely young couples or young people generally, who might be endeavouring to buy houses for the first time. I will certainly talk to the Minister for housing and Limerick City and County Council on that issue. The balance has to be right. We want approved housing bodies and councils to be building houses in the first instance. The more social houses we build, the more pressure will be taken off the private sector. We do not want councils or approved housing bodies competing with people who want to buy houses at affordable prices.