Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy has been accused of blaming county councils on housing policy failures.

Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin criticised a "deeply dishonest" briefing which indicated that the government is looking to strip housing delivery powers from local councils.

Deputy Ó Broin said: "A dishonest briefing by an 'unnamed government source' on half thought out plans by the government to strip local councils of even more powers is beneath any Minister for Housing.

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"The Minister has form on this with the introduction of his apartment planning guidelines and his fast track planning regulations.

"Neither of these changes have resulted in the speedy delivery of good quality, affordable accommodation.

"The delays in social housing delivery is caused by central government policy and procedures.

"Councils need more funding to deliver social and affordable planning projects not less.

"Removing the council's power to debate and vote on significant planning and housing decisions is a retrograde step."