There has been a lot of discussion about the plaque placed on the houses of the New Social Housing Programme. The plaque on Pauline’s house does not take away her dignity. The indignity is not having a house. Today, Pauline has a safe and secure home, and that is something to be proud of.

This house was built with your tax dollars. Every road, every school, every hospital and every house built with public funds is something the public should see and know about. Your money should never be spent quietly and without recognition.

But getting this house also comes with a responsibility. Pauline must continue to be an upstanding member of her community and give back through the way she lives and contributes.

That is what public investment should do, give people an opportunity to build a better life and strengthen their communities.