'We must not repeat the mistakes of the past' in property policy: McCarthy

The Dáil's Environment Committee is scrutinising the latest trends in the property market this afternoon.

There are concerns about the rate of increase in Dublin values in particular, and whether it could lead to another housing bubble.

The director of Property Industry Ireland Dr Peter Stafford will appear before the committee.

Chairman of the environment committee Deputy Michael McCarthy said it was important to avoid past mistakes.

"There's an opportunity there at the moment to engage with organisations that represent the property sector," he said, "but in formulating policy at local or national level, we must remain mindful of the difficulties that led to the collapse in the previous housing bubble.

"We must make sure we don't repeat the mistakes of the past."