Housing agencies and local authorities need to be given a bigger role in building social housing, according to the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

They launched an early pre-budget submission this morning, calling on the government to change their social housing plan.

SVP made the first submission ahead of budget 2017 and called for supports for lone parents, a subsidized childcare scheme and assistance for those who can’t afford to heat their homes.

Head of Social Justice with SVP Mark McCafferty says housing is a key part.

“We are looking for a real ramping up on the commitments on social housing, we feel the current commitments are not sufficient.”

The submission calls for an increase in child benefit for children over 12.

They also want to see childcare subsidies and better qualifications, pay and conditions for childcare staff.

The Society hopes that by making an early submission the government will take heed before the Dáil recess.