Sinn Féin spokesperson on Finance, Pearse Doherty TD, has said that today’s exchequer returns further underlines the state’s capacity to deliver Sinn Féin’s housing plan.

Deputy Doherty was commenting as the August Fiscal Monitor showed tax receipts of €59.8bn collected to August end, €6.7bn ahead of the same time last year.

Teachta Doherty said:

“The government has the resources to address the housing crisis and to make sure everyone in this state has a secure roof over their head. What they are missing is the political will.

“Today’s tax returns are welcome and show that the money is there for the state to address the crises we face as a society, most importantly on housing.

“Right now, right across the state, in urban and rural areas, the biggest issue facing people is the issue of housing. They are crying out for change.

“We have the money and Sinn Féin has the plan. What is needed is a step-change in ambition that we outlined in our housing plan launched this week.

“Sinn Féin wants to build homes that people can afford and bring home ownership back into reach of ordinary people.

“There is no better way to invest in our future, in our young people and in our communities, than building houses in the here and now.

“Our plan would deliver 300,000 new homes – private, public, affordable and to rent homes – as well as enabling people to build homes in their own communities.

“This is what Sinn Féin in government would do to make housing affordable and to bring homeownership back within reach of working people.

“We are ready to start delivering this plan from day one in government.

“That is why Sinn Féin’s priority ahead of the upcoming budget will be resourcing our housing plan and end the housing crisis once and for all.”