The Labour Party is calling for further discussions over the regeneration of O'Devaney Gardens in Dublin.

TD Joe Costello said while the homeless crisis needs to be addressed, there are serious questions that need to be answered.

Mr Costello said: "There are serious questions-marks over the use of a regeneration site, which is ready for redevelopment, in such a way at such a huge cost to the taxpayer.

"The complex which once housed over 280 families, now houses just 14 families who are due to be relocated shortly. The de-tenanting process and regeneration plans were carried out over the past twenty years with massive financial investment from the state and human capital from residents, former residents and surrounding communities over a long period. The City Council is rightly concerned that abandoning that process for the sake of temporary accommodation is short-sighted.

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"It is imperative that the City Council, the local housing authority and the Minister are at one in bringing about a resolution to the present crisis.

"The most sensible approach in relation to O’Devaney Gardens is for the City Council to defer the proposal until such time as full consultation takes place between the Minister, the Council and the local community."

(CD/MH)