Fine Gael has welcomed new planning reforms which will boost jobs in the construction sector.

Fine Gael Dublin South West by-election candidate, Senator Cáit Keane, said under the proposed new legislation, 10% of units in new housing schemes will be set aside for social housing.

She continued: "Additional measures include a levy on sites that are left vacant, which will encourage developers to complete sites which have been zoned for development.

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"Developers will be liable to pay a 3% tax on the value of sites that have been left vacant. This will kick-start the commencement of some now derelict sites in Dublin South West, and lead to job creation for construction workers in this area.

"I welcome these reforms. Under the new legislation, developers will be legally bound to meet their social housing targets. The provision of decent housing is a huge issue in this area and currently, we have a shortage of supply.

"These measures will go some way to provide new houses, particularly for low income families and may also impact on curbing rent increases."

(CD/JP)