Emer Currie
Question:162. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will make a policy statement recognising the economic, societal and culture value of the pub to Ireland. [17317/26]
View answerCulture Policy
Questions (162)
Written answers
While pubs can function as venues for artistic and cultural events, the economic viability of pubs ultimately is a function of consumer demand and is not a matter for my Department. The Night-Time Economy refers to the diverse social, cultural and economic activity occurring during specified evening and night-time hours. It is a hugely important sector, contributing to our economy and our cultural and creative sectors and it is important that we protect and sustain it. Pubs are dependent on a thriving and well-developed Night-Time Economy and I recognise that the local pub can be a cultural hub in our communities, providing performance spaces and employment opportunities for local artists. Pubs can also provide a space for social connection, particularly in rural communities.
In recognition of the role played by the pub in rural and urban communities my Department has supported positive interventions and pilot initiatives, specifically related to the Night-Time Economy. The Night-Time Economy Support Scheme which was launched in 2022 invited licensed premises such as pubs, to apply for funding of up to €10,000 to run cultural events during off-peak hours, to increase footfall and support for local artists.
In 2023, my Department allocated €2 million in capital funding towards the Noise Mitigation Grant Scheme, which enabled late-night venue owners to get a full, professional acoustic assessment of their venue and implement noise mitigation measures. The aim of this scheme was to better control and reduce sound emissions, especially in those areas where there is a potential impact on residents, while still allowing a vibrant night-time economy to thrive.
Building on this and other previous positive Night-Time Economy Support Schemes, last year I launched a new Scheme with an allocation of €500,000 to help protect and sustain grassroots music venues In Ireland. Grassroots venues are key cultural hubs in our communities. The scheme attracted a large number of applicants indicating strong demand and ultimately, thirty-four venues received funding.
In further recognition of the contribution these vital spaces make to the cultural and creative ecosystem in Ireland, I have allocated €1 million this year towards a second iteration of this Scheme, which I'll be launching in the coming days.
My Department will continue work with other departments, agencies and stakeholders to examine further opportunities to develop and sustain a vibrant, diverse and inclusive night-life across the country.
Pension Provisions
Questions (163)
Johnny Mythen
Question:163. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport when he will approve the agreed increases to retired staff of An Post; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17691/26]
View answerWritten answers
Under section 46 of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983, the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport with the concurrence of the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, approves any superannuation schemes submitted by An Post. The operation of the schemes is a matter between the management of An Post, staff representatives and the trustees of the schemes.
In accordance with the Act and the relevant Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, An Post must seek Ministerial approval from both Ministers to increase pensions and deferred pensions for members of the An Post superannuation scheme. Section 2.13 of the Code of Practice for Governance of State Bodies Superannuation and Remuneration annex sets out that NewERA advice should be sought in respect of pension amendment proposals, as is appropriate in their role as commercial and financial advisors to the Ministers.
On 23 October 2025, An Post wrote to my Department requesting consent for an increase to pensions in payment and deferred pensions, namely, to increase pensions in payment for members and deferred members of the An Post Superannuation Scheme by 6% per annum with effect from 1st January 2025 and 1% from 1st of June 2025, arising from its agreements with employee representative groups. In line with both the Code of Practice for State Bodies and the relevant legislation, Ministerial consent has been granted and this was conveyed to An Post on 25 February 2026.
I hope you will appreciate that as the operation of the schemes is a matter between the management of An Post, staff representatives and the trustees of the schemes, I cannot comment on when the approved increase will be received.
Pension Provisions
Questions (164)
Conor D McGuinness
Question:164. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport his plans to deal with the pensions issues for former An Post and Eir workers. [17355/26]
View answerWritten answers
Under section 46 of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983, the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, with the concurrence of the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitilisation, approves any superannuation schemes submitted by An Post.
In accordance with the Act and section 2.13 of the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies: Superannuation and Remuneration Annex, An Post must seek Ministerial approval from both Ministers to increase pensions and deferred pensions for members of the An Post superannuation scheme. Section 2.13 also requires the parent Department to seek NewERA advice in respect of pension amendment proposals, as is appropriate in their role as commercial and financial advisors to the Ministers.
On 23 October 2025, An Post wrote to my Department requesting consent for an increase in pensions in payment for members and deferred members of the An Post Superannuation Scheme by 6% per annum with effect from 1st January 2025 and 1% from 1 June 2025, arising from its agreements with employee representative groups. In line with both the Code of Practice and transfer of powers from Min/Finance to MPER, which are contained in the Postal and Telecommunications Act 1983, Ministerial consent was granted and was conveyed to An Post on 25 February 2026.
Further to section 46 of the Postal and Telecommunications Act 1983, as amended, and section 10 of the eircom superannuation scheme rules, my Department last August received a request for a pension increase of 2.1% for Eir pensioners, in respect of both pre and post vesting day service, with effect from 01 July 2025.
My officials sought the advice of NewERA on this pension increase proposal, who submitted their report on 06 February. Having considered the report, I approved the pension increase on 12 February, after which my officials sought the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure. I am aware that the Minister for Public Expenditure gave his consent to the pension increase on 23 February. I can also confirm that the Minister for Finance gave his concurrence to the proposed increase on 03 March.
Pension Provisions
Questions (165)
Johnny Mythen
Question:165. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport when he will approve the agreed increases to retired staff of Eir; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17692/26]
View answerWritten answers
Further to section 46 of the Postal and Telecommunications Act 1983, as amended, and section 10 of the eircom superannuation scheme rules, my Department last August received a request for a pension increase of 2.1% for Eir pensioners, in respect of both pre and post vesting day service, with effect from 01 July 2025.
My officials sought the advice of NewERA on this pension increase proposal, who submitted their report on 06 February. Having considered the report, I approved the pension increase on 12 February, after which my officials sought the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure. I am aware that the Minister for Public Expenditure gave his consent to the pension increase on 23 February. I can also confirm that the Minister for Finance gave his concurrence to the proposed increase on 03 March.
Cúrsaí Oidhreachta
Questions (166)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:166. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Cultúir, Cumarsáide agus Spóirt cathain agus cá háit a bhéas an comóradh Stáit in Éirinn agus go h-idirnáisiúnta ar An Gorta Mór i mbliana. [17730/26]
View answer
Reply not received from Department.
Ceisteanna Craolacháin
Questions (167)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:167. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Cultúir, Cumarsáide agus Spóirt cén dul chun cinn agus cén maoiniú atá curtha ar leataobh i mbliana chun stáisiún raidió Gaeilge dírithe ar déagóirí a chuir ag craoladh go náisiúnta; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [17731/26]
View answerWritten answers
Is bunchloch dár n-oidhreacht agus dár bhféiniúlacht náisiúnta í ár dteanga agus is tosaíocht don Rialtas seo a chinntiú go leanfar agus go méadófar tacaíocht don Ghaeilge ar fud na n-ardán meán uile. I gcomhréir le beartas an Rialtais, riarann Coimisiún na Meán, an rialtóir meán, maoiniú agus tacaíocht d’ábhar Gaeilge ardchaighdeáin trí réimse scéimeanna craolacháin.
Aithníonn an Rialtas an luach a bhaineann le rochtain a bheith ag daoine óga ar ábhar beoga, ábhartha i nGaeilge agus leagann Clár an Rialtais amach "tacaíocht a thabhairt don leathnú ar na ceadúnais craolacháin chuig stáisiúin raidió príomhshrutha Gaeilge a dhíríonn ar éisteoirí óga.”
I ndáil leis sin, choimisiúnaigh Coimisiún na Meán píosa taighde chun indéantacht seirbhís raidió Gaeilge dírithe ar éisteoirí óga a fhiosrú. Fuair oifigigh i mo Roinn aschur an taighde le déanaí agus tá siad ag breithniú na dtorthaí.
Ag an am céanna, choimisiúnaigh Coimisúin na Meán athbhreithniú cuimsitheach ar sholáthar na meán Gaeilge. Táim ag súil go bhfaighidh mé an tuarascáil sin go han-luath. Beidh torthaí an taighde sin ina gcúis le straitéis agus plean gníomhaíochta a fhorbróidh aonad Gaeilge nua atá bunaithe i gCoimisiún na Meán i bhfianaise an tábhacht a bhaineann leis an nGaeilge.
Tá mo Roinn tiomanta ar son oibriú le Coimisiún na Meán agus le geallsealbhóirí eile chun craoltóireacht na Gaeilge a neartú tuilleadh ar bhealach inbhuanaithe, go háirithe toisc go bhfuil éileamh soiléir ón lucht féachana.
Cúrsaí Tithíochta
Questions (168)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:168. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Tithíochta, Rialtais Áitiúil agus Oidhreachta cathain a bheidh reachtaíocht ann a chuideoidh i gceart le comhairlí áitiúla deileáil lena dtionóntaithe atá ag gabháil d’iompar frithshóisialta agus, más gá, díshealbhú a dhéanamh orthu; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [17739/26]
View answerWritten answers
Admhaíonn an Rialtas an cheist leanúnach a bhaineann le hiompar frithshóisialta agus an drochthionchar atá aige ar cháilíocht beatha na ndaoine a mbíonn tionchar aige orthu. Tá sé mar phríomhthosaíocht ag an Rialtas pobail shábháilte agus shlána a thógáil ar fud na tíre. Tá freagracht fhoriomlán ar mo chomhghleacaí, an tAire Dlí agus Cirt, as beartas agus reachtaíocht a bhaineann le heachtraí tromchúiseacha d’iompar frithshóisialta tríd an gcód coiriúil a fhorfheidhmíonn an Garda Síochána.
Tá ról lárnach le himirt ag mo Roinn sa mhéid sin freisin trí chreat reachtaíochta a chur ar fáil a thugann réimse uirlisí do thiarnaí talún tithíochta sóisialta chun dul i ngleic le hiompar frithshóisialta atá á dhéanamh ag a dtionóntaí. Tá údaráis áitiúla freagrach faoi Achtanna na dTithe as a stoc tithíochta a bhainistiú agus a chothabháil agus a n-eastáit a bhainistiú, lena n-áirítear bearta iomchuí a dhéanamh chun dul i ngleic le hiompar frithshóisialta. Forálann Acht na dTithe (Forálacha Ilghnéitheacha), 1997, d’orduithe cúirte a eisiúint chun ball den teaghlach atá ag gabháil d’iompar frithshóisialta a eisiamh ón áit chónaithe agus, más iomchuí, ón eastát atá i gceist. Tugann Acht 1997 cumhacht freisin d’údarás tithíochta diúltú áit chónaithe a leithdháileadh nó a dhíol le duine atá ag gabháil d’iompar frithshóisialta.
Cuireadh feabhas suntasach freisin ar chumhachtaí na n-údarás áitiúil sa réimse seo le Cuid 2 d’Acht na dTithe (Forálacha Ilghnéitheacha), 2014, a dhéanann foráil maidir le rabhadh tionóntachta a eisiúint lena gceanglaítear ar thionóntaí scor d’aon ghníomhaíocht fhrithshóisialta. Tugann Cuid 2 d’Acht 2014 an chumhacht freisin d’údaráis áitiúla seilbh a n-áit chónaithe a aisghabháil ó theaghlaigh a sháraíonn a gcomhaontuithe tionóntachta go tromchúiseach, lena n-áirítear dul i mbun iompair fhrithshóisialta.
To ask the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration when legislation will be place to properly assist local councils in dealing with tenants who are engaging in anti-social behaviour and, if necessary, evict them; and will he make a statement on the matter.
The Government acknowledges the persistent issue of anti-social behaviour and the detrimental effect that it has on the quality of life of those affected by it. Building safe and secure communities across the country is a top priority of Government. My colleague the Minister for Justice has overall responsibility for policy and legislation relating to serious incidents of anti-social behaviour through the criminal code which is enforced by An Garda Síochána.
My Department also has a key role to play in this by providing a framework of legislation giving social housing landlords a range of tools to tackle anti-social behaviour being perpetrated by their tenants. Local authorities are responsible under the Housing Acts for the management and maintenance of their housing stock and the management of their estates, including taking appropriate measures to counter anti-social behaviour. The Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1997 Act provides for the issuing of court orders to exclude a household member engaged in anti-social behaviour from the dwelling and, if appropriate, the estate in question. The 1997 Act also empowers a housing authority to refuse to allocate or sell a dwelling to a person engaged in anti-social behaviour.
The powers of local authorities in this area were also significantly enhanced by Part 2 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2014, which provides for the issuing of a tenancy warning requiring that tenants cease any anti-social activity. Part 2 of the 2014 Act also gives local authorities the power to recover possession of their dwellings from households in serious breach of their tenancy agreements, including engaging in anti-social behaviour.
Planning Issues
Questions (169)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:169. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update on plans to amend planning exemptions for modular homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17243/26]
View answerWritten answers
Significant progress on the review of Exempted Development Regulations has been made. A successful public consultation took place last year with over 900 submissions received via the online portal. The details in these submissions have been reviewed and have informed the on-going drafting of the updated Exempted Development Regulations that will be forthcoming across 2026.
The implementation of the update of these regulations is being done on a phased basis, by theme, with priority already having been given to the exemptions relating to domestic dwellings. These domestic dwellings regulations are at advanced draft stage and include exemptions for stand-alone detached housing units in the back gardens of residential properties. The final decisions on the specifics of these regulations will be communicated and brought forward for implementation as soon as possible.
The new draft Exempted Development Regulations will be subject to formal environmental consideration, before being laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. This will also necessitate engagement with the Joint Oireachtas Committee for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, which is expected to take place during 2026, an appearance will be sought before the Committee at the earliest opportunity once drafting of updated regulations is complete.
It is intended that updated Exempted Development Regulations for residential development will be signed into law as soon as possible.
Heritage Schemes
Questions (170)
Cathal Crowe
Question:170. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when he expects to announce the Historic Structures Fund; and if he will consider the applications made by Clare Tourism Development (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17248/26]
View answerWritten answers
The assessment of this year’s Historic Structures Fund (HSF) applications is ongoing. I can confirm that the applications referred to have been considered as part of that assessment.
The application process for HSF grants is always very competitive, with worthy projects being submitted from across the country and limited funds available. I expect to announce the list of successful projects in late March.
Regeneration Projects
Questions (171, 172)
Eoghan Kenny
Question:171. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of community and voluntary organisations currently in receipt of core funding under the REGEN programme; to provide a breakdown of those organisations by county; the total annual amount of REGEN core funding allocated to community and voluntary organisations; the arrangements in place to ensure continuity of services and projects delivered by those organisations when REGEN funding concludes, including any successor funding stream, transitional funding, or alternative supports, with particular reference to a co-op (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17350/26]
View answerEoghan Kenny
Question:172. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if regeneration funding will no longer be made available to local authorities to support organisations such a co-op (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17351/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 171 and 172 together.
My Department does not provide core funding to any community and voluntary organisation under the National Regeneration Programme. Rather funding is provided through the programme's social funding pillar for specific programmes of activities delivered by community and voluntary organisations on a year-to-year basis. The activities and organisations funded are generally a matter for the relevant local authority.
This funding was never intended to be long-term or core funding. It was provided on a seed basis only and to support community participation during active estate regeneration. Accordingly, as regeneration projects and funding winds down, the respective community and voluntary organisations, supported by their local authority, will need to engage with the appropriate policy departments, agencies and local development bodies if longer-term or core funding support is needed post wind down of the regeneration programme.
The Cranmore Regeneration Project in Sligo reached a major milestone in September 2025 when the final phase of its refurbishment programme was completed. The regeneration project is now winding down, Sligo County Council has begun implementing its exit plan, and funding for community groups will reduce gradually before ending in 2028. This phased approach will provide affected groups with a window of time required to secure more appropriate and sustainable support.
These alternative sources may include, among others, funding through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht through the Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme or Social Enterprise Development Fund. They may also include, where appropriate, funding from the Sports Capital Programme through the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport; the Department of Education and Skills and other local training and skills agencies; the Department of Children, Disability and Equality; and other departments, agencies and local development bodies depending on the particular activities in question. Ultimately, the onus rests with Sligo County Council and the relevant community groups to identify and pursue these alternative sources as regeneration programme support winds down.
My Department is currently developing a revised estate remediation and regeneration programme. The revised programme will focus primarily on the physical regeneration of local authority estates, including the refurbishment and construction of dwellings and, in some instances, public realm works and community facilities, where appropriate.
Question No. 172 answered with Question No. 171.
Wastewater Treatment
Questions (173)
Niamh Smyth
Question:173. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to review a case (details supplied); if he will provide an update on the working group; the stage at which their works are at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17386/26]
View answerWritten answers
I assume the question relates to the new Developer-Led Wastewater Infrastructure (DLI) initiative. I recently announced this initiative to accelerate delivery of wastewater infrastructure in locations without access to Uisce Éireann capacity or where no immediate upgrade is planned, and I intend to make it operational in the next few days.
Under the initiative, developers may fund and construct wastewater infrastructure, which will transfer to Uisce Éireann ownership upon completion. All infrastructure built must meet Uisce Éireann’s technical standards and environmental standards.
Arrangements have been agreed between my Department, Uisce Éireann, and the Environmental Protection Agency, with responsibilities clarified to support delivery of the initiative.
The initiative will be operational in the next few days and will support sustainable housing development by enabling timely wastewater solutions in areas affected by capacity constraints, helping to accelerate the delivery of essential infrastructure. It is a matter for developers to identify locations where new infrastructure may be developed.
Vacant Properties
Questions (174)
Robert Troy
Question:174. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to consider the introduction of a stage payment plan option for the vacant property refurbishment grant; and to assist individuals who are unable to meet the full cost upfront. [17458/26]
View answerWritten answers
Tackling vacancy and dereliction is at the heart of the Government's housing plan Delivering Homes, Building Communities.
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant introduced in July 2022, provides a grant of up to €50,000 for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence and for properties which will be made available for rent. A top-up grant of up to €20,000 is available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €70,000.
The grant process involves the local authority receiving and reviewing applications to ensure that the grant conditions are met and arranging for a qualified person to visit the property to check the refurbishment work being applied for and to assess the proposed cost. Following confirmation of a successful application and the works being completed, the local authority will conduct a final property visit to review that the work has been completed in-line with the grant application. Once the local authority is satisfied, they will then pay the grant.
Payment of the grant at the end of the process is to ensure that the applicant has carried out the works applied for and for which the grant is being paid. This is also the case for grants such as the SEAI grants and Housing Adaptation Grants, which are paid when works are completed.
Under the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan, launched in July 2024, a first-time buyer who wishes to purchase and/or renovate a Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant eligible home but who cannot get sufficient funding from commercial lenders is now able to apply to their local authority for a loan under the scheme. The Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan has the potential to help first time buyers and fresh start applicants to complete the purchase and renovation of a vacant or derelict property and provides an avenue to secure the necessary finance to make the project viable.
Housing Provision
Questions (175)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:175. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on the progress of the Ravenhouse development in Finglas, Dublin 11, as developed by Dublin City Council in conjunction with an approved housing body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17464/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department issued approval to Dublin City Council to proceed with lease and funding arrangements for the leasing of 37 units (including one Part V unit) at Raven House, Jamestown Road, Finglas, last year. It was expected that the units would be delivered by the end of 2025.
However, my Department was subsequently informed that despite the best efforts of both Dublin City Council and the AHB Tuath, agreement could not be reached with the developer and the lease of 36 units could not therefore proceed. 1 unit will be delivered for social housing in due course under a Part V arrangement.
In accordance with longstanding Government policy, long term leasing came to an end in December 2025.
Housing Policy
Questions (176)
Colm Burke
Question:176. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the process put in place to arrange for property registered to Cork County Council to be transferred to Cork City Council after the extension of the city boundary; the reason three houses in an area (details supplied) which are vacant for over ten years remain registered to Cork County Council but are now in Cork City Council area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17618/26]
View answerWritten answers
I refer to my reply to Question No. 585 of 3 March 2026. The position remains the same.
Legislative Measures
Questions (177)
John Connolly
Question:177. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when Part 4 of the planning and development act 2024 will be commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17708/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department is continuing the process of bringing the Planning and Development Act 2024 (Act of 2024) into operation as expeditiously as possible on a phased basis. This is a task of considerable scale and complexity and continues to be based on the necessary engagement with local authorities, planning bodies and other key stakeholders in order to ensure there is adequate awareness and readiness throughout the commencement and implementation processes.
It should be noted that the existing provisions in the Planning and Development Act 2000 remain in place until repealed and the relevant provisions in the Act of 2024 have been brought into effect.
The commencement of Part 4 (Development Consent), as well as any remaining provisions of the Act of 2024, is being actioned as a priority for 2026. The General Scheme of the forthcoming Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2026 proposes amendments to expedite certain planning processes and to support the implementation and commencement of the Act of 2024. The Bill was announced 27 November 2025 with the general scheme published 14 January 2026. It is anticipated that the Bill will be enacted this summer and the commencement of Part 4 will follow shortly thereafter.
A detailed implementation plan, commencement schedule, circulars and a range of other useful resources are available to view at www.gov.ie/planning.
Housing Schemes
Questions (178, 180, 181, 182)
Conor D McGuinness
Question:178. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the allocation per local authority for the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability for each year from 2015-2025 and for 2026, in tabular form. [17709/26]
View answerConor D McGuinness
Question:180. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to detail underspend or funds returned to his Department by each local authority under Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability and Disability Adaptation to Housing Stock In each year from 2015-2025 and for 2026, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17712/26]
View answerConor D McGuinness
Question:181. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to detail waiting times in each local authority under Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability and Disability Adaptation to Housing Stock In each year from 2015-2025 and for 2026, in tabular form, where wait time equates to date of application to date of final drawdown for the former, and date of application to date of completion of works for the latter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17713/26]
View answerConor D McGuinness
Question:182. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department permits local authorities to pool allocations received under Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability and Disability Adaptation to Housing Stock in order to provide a level of equity between waiting times for each scheme. [17714/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department provides funding under the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and Disabled People, to assist those in private houses to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs. The suite of grants, which include the Housing Adaptation Grant for Disabled People, the Mobility Aids Grant and the Housing Aid for Older People Grant, are funded by my Department with a contribution from the local authority.
Budget 2026 provides an increase of €30 million for the scheme, with almost €130 million in Exchequer funding available for the Scheme, or over €152 million when accounting for the local authority contribution. This significant increase in funding will support the payment of some 17,000 grant claims delivering the continued year-on-year increases in funding for the grant scheme since 2014.
My Department works closely with the local authorities to monitor spend and to achieve drawdown of available funding. This means that any underspends that arise on the part of any local authority can be redistributed to other authorities which have high levels of grant activity and my Department makes every effort to redistribute such funding throughout the year. Details of the allocations and drawdown for the years 2015 to 2024 are available on my Department's website at the following link:
https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/collections/other-local-authority-housing-scheme-statistics
Details of the final allocations and funding drawdown by local authorities in 2025 is currently being collated and will be available on my Department’s website shortly.
The detailed administration of the scheme including assessment, approval, prioritisation and apportionment is the responsibility of local authorities. My Department does not hold collated dynamic data on waiting times for grant approval or grant amounts awarded. This information may be available directly from the local authorities.
My Department also provides funding to local authorities under the Disabled Persons Grants scheme to carry out works on social housing stock to address the needs of older people, people with a disability or overcrowded situations. The detailed administration of the programme is a matter for each individual local authority including prioritisation and implementation of the required measures. Therefore, details in relation to individual applications are not collated by my Department and may be available from the respective local authority upon request. Details identifying allocation versus drawdown is available at the link below.
Details of the allocations and drawdown for the years 2015 to 2024 are available on my Department's website at the following link:
https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/disabled-persons-grant-and-improved-works-in-lieu-schemes-allocation-and-drawdown/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/en/publication/c472d-disabled-persons-grant-and-improved-works-in-lieu-schemes-allocation-and-drawdown-2011-2020/
Data in relation to 2025 will be published shortly.
The Housing Adaptation Grant for Older People and Disabled People Scheme to assist those in private houses and the Disabled Persons Grants scheme for local authority social housing are separate schemes which therefore operate independently of each other including in respect of funding drawdown.
Departmental Data
Questions (179)
Conor D McGuinness
Question:179. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the allocation per local authority for the Disability Adaptation to Housing Stock for each year from 2015-2025 and for 2026, in tabular form. [17710/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department provides funding to local authorities under the Disabled Persons Grants scheme to carry out works on social homes to address the needs of older people, people with a disability or overcrowded situations. Typical works include adaptations such as stair-lifts, level deck showers, ramps and grab rails, widening door opening widths, and improving circulation spaces. Extensions to provide for ground floor bathrooms and bedrooms can also be supported.
The Disabled Persons Grant Funding Programme budget for 2026 is €28.5m and covers a number of schemes including adaptation works for local authority homes occupied by older and disabled persons and the Remedial and Improvement Works Schemes. €26.5m of the available funding in 2026 will however be spent on adaptations of local authority homes occupied by disabled and older persons and individual local authority allocations for 2026 will issue shortly.
The allocation and funding drawn down under the programme by each local authority for the period 2011-2024 is available on my Department's website at www.gov.ie/en/publication/061cd-disabled-persons-grant-and-improved-works-in-lieu-schemes-allocation-and-drawdown/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/en/publication/c472d-disabled-persons-grant-and-improved-works-in-lieu-schemes-allocation-and-drawdown-2011-2020/
Details of delivery under the 2025 Disabled Persons Grant Programme will be published shortly.
Questions Nos. 180 to 182, inclusive, answered with Question No. 178.
Cásanna Dlí Ranna
Questions (183)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:183. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Tithíochta, Rialtais Áitiúil agus Oidhreachta cén uair a bhéas an reachtaíocht foilsithe a dhéanas deileáil leis an lacuna maidir ballóid i leith athrú sráidainmeacha nó a leithéad a cothaíodh nuair a déanadh aisghairm ar forálacha san Acht Rialtas Áitiúil 1946; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [17715/26]
View answerWritten answers
Foráiltear i gCuid 18 d’Acht Rialtais Áitiúil, 2001, arna leasú, d’athrú logainmneacha ag údaráis áitiúla. Is feidhmeanna forchoimeádta de chuid na gcomhaltaí tofa iad glacadh le togra chun logainm a athrú, breithniú a dhéanamh ar aighneachtaí i ndáil le togra den sórt sin agus an cinneadh ballóid de thoghthóirí cáilithe a reáchtáil.
Foráiltear i gCuid 18 gur féidir Rialacháin a dhéanamh maidir le pobalbhreitheanna a reáchtáil chun logainmneacha a athrú. Sula bhféadfaí Rialacháin a dhéanamh, áfach, sainaithníodh saincheisteanna maidir leis an idirghníomhaíocht idir Cuid 18 leasaithe den Acht Rialtais Áitiúil, 2001, agus forálacha atá i reachtaíocht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla.
Táthar ag súil go mbeidh gá le reachtaíocht phríomha chun réiteach a fháil ar na castachtaí reachtaíochta atá ann idir na hAchtanna Rialtais Áitiúil agus Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla. Déanfaidh mo Roinn an cheist a bhreithniú tuilleadh i gcomhairle leis na hoifigigh ábhartha ón Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta. Tá roinnt cinntí beartais ann a chaithfear a thabhairt chun críche idir an dá Roinn, agus a chaithfidh an Rialtas a bhreithniú, go háirithe maidir le ról na Comhairle agus ról an Aire le freagracht as Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla agus as an gCoimisiún Logainmneacha.
Leanfar leis an obair leis an Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta ar réiteach cheist na logainmneacha, d’fhonn beartas athbhreithnithe a chomhaontú agus aon athrú reachtaíochta riachtanach a shainaithint. Is ábhar casta é seo a gcaithfear machnamh cúramach a dhéanamh air.
Cúrsaí Tithíochta
Questions (184)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:184. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Tithíochta, Rialtais Áitiúil agus Oidhreachta tithíocht cathain a ghlacadh an LDA seilbh ar na tailte faoi stiúir an Mol Digiteach i mBaile Átha Cliath 8 atá aitheanta aca ar mhaithe le títhíocht ach go bhfuil cáin zónáil tithíocht á dhíol ag an Mol ortha de thairbhe moill an LDA seilbh a ghlacadh ortha agus an féidir leis trácht ar an gceist [17795/26]
View answerWritten answers
Tá an Rialtas tiomanta go láidir d’úsáid talamh stáit folamh nó talamh nach bhfuil á úsáid go hiomlán don tithíocht, tar éis teacht ar chomhaontú maidir le haistriú 37 láithreán go dtí An Ghníomhaireacht um Forbairt Talún (GFT) go dtí seo chun tithíocht inacmhainne agus shóisialta a fhorbairt.
Aontaíodh faoi aistriú láithreán an Digital Hub, atá faoi láthair faoi úinéireacht Gníomhaireacht Forbartha don Mhol Digiteach (GFDD), ag an Rialtas faoi Tithíocht do Chách.
Tá an GFT, in éineacht lena fhoireann deartha, ag leanúint ar aghaidh le dearadh a fhorbairt a fhreagraíonn dúshláin a bhaineann le forbairt an láithreáin uirbeach, oidhreachta, fomhuirí seo atá 3.7 hectár de airde, ar a dtugtar Pear Tree Crossing.
Tá beagnach 550 teach beartaithe, agus beidh meascán bríomhar de áiseanna tráchtála, cultúrtha agus pobail san áireamh freisin ar an láithreán. Áirítear leis seo athchóiriú agus athúsáid oiriúnaitheach ar na foirgnimh ar Shráid Tomáis.
Tugadh cead pleanála don GFT in 2025 chun oibreacha cumaisc a dhéanamh ar chuid de thailte na tionscadail atá san áireamh lena n-áirítear glanadh tosaigh an tsuímh. Tá sé beartaithe anois go ndéanfar iarratas pleanála do thithe nua ar an suíomh seo a chur isteach in 2026.
Tá comhaontú i bhfeidhm idir an GFDD agus an GFT, agus tá an próiseas chun an t-aistriú dlíthiúil ar an suíomh a chur i gcrích ar siúl faoi láthair.
Is féidir tuilleadh faisnéise faoin bhforbairt seo a fháil ar shuíomh gréasáin an GFT: lda.ie/projects.
B’fhéidir go mbeadh sé úsáideach a thabhairt faoi deara go bhfuil socruithe curtha i bhfeidhm ag mo Roinn chun a chinntiú go mbíonn seoladh ríomhphoist tiomnaithe ag na gníomhaireachtaí poiblí faoi réir aici chun eolas a sholáthar go díreach do bhaill den Oireachtas. Soláthraíonn sé córas tapa, éifeachtach agus saor chun fiosrúcháin a chur go díreach chuig na gníomhaireachtaí ábhartha. I dtaobh seo, is féidir teagmháil a dhéanamh leis an GFT trí ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig oireachtas@lda.ie.
Fire Service
Questions (185, 186, 187)
Paul Lawless
Question:185. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to confirm the mandatory retirement age currently applied to members of the retained fire service, including the requirement for personnel to retire before reaching sixty-two years of age. [17810/26]
View answerPaul Lawless
Question:186. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to detail the medical fitness requirements for retained firefighters, including bi-annual medical examinations after forty years of age and annual medical examinations after fifty years of age; and to confirm that these requirements remain in place. [17814/26]
View answerPaul Lawless
Question:187. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will engage with unions (details supplied) which are actively campaigning for reforms to the retirement age and conditions for retained firefighters; and outline any planned or ongoing consultations. [17817/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 185, 186 and 187 together.
The mandatory retirement age for all uniformed services, including An Garda Síochána, the National Ambulance Service and the defence forces is a whole of government decision. The Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers, TD, has powers under Part 11 of the Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024, to enable line ministers, with his prior consent, to make regulations regarding the retirement age.
A retained firefighter shall retire upon attaining the age of 55 years. If a firefighter wishes to serve beyond that age, the fire authority who employs them must satisfy themselves as to their medical fitness, having undergone the appropriate medical assessment. The firefighter may continue to serve, undergoing annual fitness tests, but must retire on or before their 62nd birthday.
Under Section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each Chief Executive is responsible for the staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authority for which they are responsible. The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of fire station premises, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under the Fire Services Act, 1981 & 2003. My Department supports fire authorities through setting general policy, providing a central training programme, issuing guidance on operational and other related matters and providing capital funding support for equipment and priority infrastructural projects.
Engagement with staff side associations, including on medical assessments, is a matter for each local authority as the employer(s) and I understand the Local Government Management Agency will act on their behalf in industrial relations matters in the normal way.
Question No. 186 answered with Question No. 185.
Question No. 187 answered with Question No. 185.
Departmental Data
Questions (188)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:188. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the average length of time it takes to process first registrations in each of the years 2023, 2024 and 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17840/26]
View answerWritten answers
Tailte Éireann is an independent Government agency under the aegis of my Department. Tailte Éireann provides a property registration system, property valuation service and national mapping and surveying infrastructure for the State. Under Section 8 of the Tailte Éireann Act 2022, Tailte Éireann is independent in the performance of its functions.
It is understood that it is not possible for Tailte Éireann to provide the information as requested in the required format. Applications for registration of title on the National Land Register, whether for first registration or in relation to registered title, must first meet Tailte Éireann’s minimum requirements to proceed to registration. A significant percentage of applications lodged do not meet the minimum requirements and result in an administrative burden for Tailte Éireann and longer processing times for all applicants.
First Registrations are often complex and diverse, and the first registration process is often quoted as having a curative effect. Once a title is registered it is guaranteed under State indemnification provisions. Where the application for first registration requires full investigation of title by Tailte Éireann, a Tailte Éireann Examiner of Titles must be satisfied that the applicant is entitled to the legal title and, in the vast majority of cases, necessary rulings and queries must be raised on first registration applications before they can proceed.
Applications for first registration of title account for approximately 12% of Tailte Éireann’s overall intake. Average processing times vary depending on the type of application lodged.
Cases with Certification of Title by Solicitor• : Applications for first registration on Form 3 / Form 3 (MSB) of the Land Registration Rules 2012-2021 (LRR) which are certified by a solicitor and lodged in order, typically have substantially shorter processing times.
Cases Requiring an Examination of Title:• Where full examination of title is required by Tailte Éireann on Form 1 and Form 2 of the LRR, these often involve clarifying queries, issuance of notices and dealing with objections, which can extend processing times significantly.
In cases where any delay in registration could have a potential impact, Tailte Éireann makes every effort to expedite applications where valid grounds exist, and where doing so does not impose a conflict in regard to priority given to any prior lodged dealing. Lodging parties may contact Tailte Éireann in relation to a specific case by email at [info@tailte.ie].
Further information in relation to specific cases may be obtained by Oireachtas members by contacting the dedicated e-mail address in respect of Tailte Éireann at [oireachtas@tailte.ie].
Departmental Data
Questions (189)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:189. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the total number of applications made to Tailte Éireann for first registration in each of the years 2023, 2024 and 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17841/26]
View answerWritten answers
Tailte Éireann is an independent Government agency under the aegis of my Department. Tailte Éireann provides a property registration system, property valuation service and national mapping and surveying infrastructure for the State. Under Section 8 of the Tailte Éireann Act 2022, Tailte Éireann is independent in the performance of its functions. The information requested is set out in the table below.
Further information may be obtained by Oireachtas members by contacting the dedicated e-mail address in respect of Tailte Éireann at [oireachtas@tailte.ie] should further clarification be required.
|
First Registration Applications |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|
Cases requiring an Examination of Title |
6,370 |
11,073 |
12,660 |
|
Cases with Certification of Title by solicitor |
12,247 |
18,039 |
20,789 |
Departmental Data
Questions (190)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:190. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the total number of property registrations processed by Tailte Éireann for each of the years 2023, 2024 and 2025. in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17842/26]
View answerWritten answers
Tailte Éireann is an independent Government agency under the aegis of my Department. Tailte Éireann provides a property registration system, property valuation service and national mapping and surveying infrastructure for the State. Under Section 8 of the Tailte Éireann Act 2022, Tailte Éireann is independent in the performance of its functions.
The information provided by Tailte Éireann below relates to all applications for registration on the National Land Register, including First Registration applications, as requested. Each application may contain a number of property transactions to be registered, for example a transfer of title, a mortgage/charge and a right of way in favour of the applicant may be lodged within one application.
The number of applications processed in each year refers to all applications which have been brought to a final conclusion within the year and includes applications which have been completed, refused, rejected, withdrawn or abandoned as they could not be processed further.
|
- |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|
Total Applications Lodged |
240,803 |
262,661 |
296,039 |
|
Total Applications Processed |
241,569 |
269,740 |
314,327 |
Further information may be obtained by Oireachtas members by contacting the dedicated e-mail address in respect of Tailte Éireann at oireachtas@tailte.ie should further clarification be required.