The Environment Minister says he is used to criticism by homelessness campaigner Fr. Peter McVerry, and says he never says anything positive.

Alan Kelly was responding to comments made by Fr. McVerry that the government's housing and homeless strategies were ‘Alice in Wonderland’ politics.

“I’m used to those comments from him. I haven’t heard him say one thing positive yet in relation to anything.

“Which is unfortunate because many members of his staff who work with us would have contrary views or express contrary views. I’d rather if people were more constructive,” Mr Kelly said.

Minister Kelly says he has spent more than any other Minister in history on housing

“We were meant to have a meeting, he cancelled it some time ago but I’m happy to talk to him at any time. But to be frank, you’re talking to the person who has put more money into housing on this island in the history of the state, so that’s the reality,” Mr Kelly said.