The programme for Government outlines a commitment to reduce costs, minimising red tape, reforming our planning system and promoting direct delivery. Because there is a national housing crisis, I believe the Government needs to urge local authorities and planners to actively support individuals applying for planning permission. People feel disconnected from the process and feel they are unable to effectively deal with the local authority. We need a designated point of contact with local authorities for planning, allowing applicants to consult with a dedicated individual for guidance and support.

To effectively address the housing crisis, we must adopt a more collaborative approach to planning. This means ensuring that the processes are not only accessible, but also welcoming and supportive. Many of these people could easily have their names on council housing lists, but with help from parents, families or friends, they could build homes over time. A more collaborative approach is needed to ensure the planning process is accessible and supportive so that people can build homes for themselves and their families.

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. There is a lot of merit in what he is saying. The Government is endeavouring to develop greater flexibilities for people in rural Ireland in particular. I understand guidelines are under consideration in that respect to enable people to build their own homes. With the vacant grants and the grants to restore derelict houses, we have facilitated quite a number of people in rural Ireland, and young couples in particular, to establish homes. However, I know what the Deputy is saying, in that many people have the wherewithal to build a house. We just need to facilitate and enable them to do that.