Written Answers Nos. 391-419
391. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the assessment that has been made of the cumulative impacts of the proposed Eastern and Midlands Water Supply Project on biodiversity, habitats and protected species within the Shannon Callows and wider Shannon catchment, particularly during periods of drought and low river flow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52700/26]
View answerAn Coimisiún Pleanála will consider the environmental, biodiversity and habitat impacts of the Water Supply Project for the Eastern and Midlands Region (WSP-EMR) as part of the planning application submitted by Uisce Éireann in December, 2025.
Under section 30 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), as Minister I have no role in any individual planning application or in any specific aspects of a planning application.
392. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of a site (details supplied); whether any decisions, directions or determinations have issued since the meeting; if not, the reason for the delay; when a determination is expected; whether the excavation works and report submitted will satisfy the landowner’s financial obligations in respect of any further investigative work relating to off-site remains; whether his Department will provide assistance in relation to exceptional and unforeseen archaeological costs arising in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52724/26]
View answerThe National Monuments Service of my Department is liaising directly with the relevant parties on this matter.
393. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will introduce a waiver scheme for development contribution fees for first-time planning applicants seeking permission to build their first home, given the huge cost now involved in applying for planning permission and the fact some local authorities have increased the fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52727/26]
View answer403. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if there are plans to reintroduce the temporary development contribution waiver scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52997/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 393 and 403 together.
On 25 April 2023, the Government approved additional measures under the Housing for All Action Plan to incentivise the activation of increased housing supply and help reduce housing construction costs, including the introduction of temporary time-limited arrangements for the waiving of local authority “section 48” development contributions and the refunding of Uisce Éireann water and waste water connection charges.
The Government recognised that measures needed to be put in place to help address cost and viability with a view to incentivising the activation of a pipeline of new housing commencements, and assisting in the delivery of supply as quickly as possible. The waiver scheme applied to all permitted residential development including multi-unit developments, self-build houses and one-off houses, student accommodation and sheltered housing.
The schemes initially applied for one year to all permitted residential development that commenced on site between 25 April 2023 (the date of the Government Decision approving the measure) and 24 April 2024, and that are completed not later than 31 December 2025. On 23 April 2024, the Government approved an extension for the waiving of local authority “section 48” development contributions in respect of residential development commenced not later than 31 December 2024 and the refunding of Uisce Éireann water and waste water connection charges in respect of residential development commenced not later than 30 September 2024.
In April 2024, the final date for the completion of development works on qualifying houses under the schemes was extended from 31 December 2025 to 31 December 2026.
The temporary measures were always meant to be time-bound and this waiver has had the desired effect to deliver more housing.
I confirm there are no plans to extend or re-introduce the waiver scheme.
394. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he plans to review the operation of the cost-rental scheme for tenants who suffer catastrophic, life-changing injuries after entering the scheme; the reason there is no legislative provision or policy within the cost-rental scheme to protect tenants whose circumstances change due to permanent disability or catastrophic injury; if he has considered introducing a mechanism that allows cost-rental tenants in exceptional circumstances to move to suitable accessible accommodation without losing the benefits of the scheme; the supports available to assist people with permanent disabilities who need to purchase an accessible home when existing housing schemes do not provide accommodation that meets their long-term needs; if he will consider a scheme allowing the State or local authority to purchase a suitable accessible home in exceptional cases where the individual has a pending personal injury claim that is expected to fund the purchase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52806/26]
View answer395. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he intends to review existing housing policy to ensure that people who become permanently disabled are not left trapped in unsuitable accommodation because of current housing schemes (details supplied) and the lack of flexibility to respond to life-changing circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52807/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 394 and 395 together.
It is understood that housing needs and personal circumstances can change over time. Where a household's circumstances have changed significantly since entering a Cost Rental tenancy, tenants should engage with their Local Authority to explore housing supports available and options that may be better suited to their current needs.
These options could include, for example, the Housing Assistance Payment in cases where disability had led to a loss of income and difficulty affording the cost-covering rent. It could also include applying for social housing support with medical priority on the basis of their disability, subject to the eligibility and need criteria set down in section 20 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and the associated Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011, as amended. In some scenarios, a Cost Rental tenancy may no longer be the most appropriate housing solution for an individual.
While Cost Rental homes may be provided by Approved Housing Bodies, Local Authorities, or the Land Development Agency, the Cost Rental model is distinct from the provision of social housing. Cost Rental tenancies are generally intended to operate in a manner similar to standard residential tenancies, and are therefore subject to the provisions of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 and the jurisdiction of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).
Supports available through Local Authorities include the means-tested Housing Adaptation Grant for Disabled People. This is a grant for the carrying out of adaptation works that, in the opinion of the Local Authority, are reasonably necessary for the purposes of rendering a house more suitable for a member of the household who has an enduring physical, sensory, mental health or intellectual disability. In general, these grant schemes can be used for works such as level access showers, accessible bathrooms, access ramps, stair lifts, fixed track hoists, or extensions.
As with other residential tenancies, there is not an obligation on a Cost Rental landlord to provide a dwelling that has been specifically adapted to meet the changed needs of a person with a disability. Any adaptations to a property are ordinarily a matter to be agreed between the tenant and the landlord, with the landlord's consent required for works to be carried out. In practice, Cost Rental landlords may seek to accommodate such requests where reasonably possible, having regard to the circumstances of the tenancy and the property concerned.
Where a Cost Rental tenant wishes to purchase a home more suitable to their needs, they can benefit from the range of Starter Home purchase supports: Help to Buy, the Starter Home Purchase Scheme, and the First Home Scheme. Information is available online at www.gov.ie/starterhomesupports. A number of these schemes can be combined, thereby providing additional affordability support.
396. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage given that the European Space Agency has confirmed that their satellite measurements are showing a sharp surge in sea-surface temperatures across the Pacific, which signals that El Niño is back, if his Department is putting in place mitigation measures to deal with the resulting weather disruption in Ireland,; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52839/26]
View answerLocal authorities are the lead agencies responsible for coordinating the response to flooding and severe weather emergencies. Each local authority operates a Severe Weather Assessment Team and maintains Severe Weather and Flood Plans to support preparedness and response measures. These teams monitor weather warnings from Met Éireann, High Tide Advisories and notifications from the European Flood Awareness System (EFAS).
While El Niño can significantly influence weather patterns in some regions of the world, Met Éireann advise that its impact on Ireland and Europe is comparatively weak, variable and not currently a reliable driver of weather conditions. The World Meteorological Organisation’s seasonal climate analysis for this summer does not indicate any clear evidence of additional warming in Ireland attributable to El Niño.
Although some studies suggest that El Niño may exert a greater influence on Ireland’s climate in the second half of this century under higher greenhouse gas emission scenarios, this is not considered a factor in current seasonal forecasts.
Met Éireann continues to monitor weather conditions across seasonal, monthly, weekly and daily timescales and provides ongoing support and advice to the National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management (NDFEM) and the Principal Response Agencies.
As the Lead Government Department for severe weather and flooding events, the Department, through the NDFEM, coordinates a whole-of-Government response where required. This is undertaken in close collaboration with local authorities, Met Éireann, relevant Government Departments and response agencies to ensure an effective and coordinated approach.
Local authorities remain at the forefront of the operational response to severe weather events, supported by established national coordination arrangements that provide a robust and well-tested framework for managing emergencies. In advance of each winter season, the NDFEM convene Government Departments and key agencies, including local authority representatives, to review preparedness measures.
Accordingly, established preparedness, monitoring and response arrangements remain in place to manage severe weather and flooding risks and will continue to be kept under review.
397. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if there is a specific policy within his Department that seeks to preclude those elected to local authorities from any boards that he may appoint; the rationale behind any such policy; the way in which it aligns with encouraging participation in local government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52858/26]
View answer398. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to commit to preparing legislation to not automatically exclude members of local authorities from consideration for appointment to State boards; and to set out the reasons such persons would be excluded. [52876/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 397 and 398 together.
The conditions for appointment of an individual to the board of a particular State body are set out in that State body's establishing legislation and are a matter for the Minister with responsibility for that legislation. Where the establishing legislation provides that a person may not serve on a board while also holding elected office, including membership of a local authority, those statutory provisions apply.
In addition, all appointments are made in compliance with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and the relevant Government guidelines governing appointments to State boards. These frameworks are intended to promote high standards of governance, accountability, transparency, independence and the appropriate management of conflicts of interest.
There is no provision in the Local Government Act 2001, as amended that automatically excludes an elected member of a local authority from consideration for appointment to State boards.
There are currently no plans to introduce legislation in respect of councillors' appointment to State boards.
399. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the independent panel to review the defective concrete blocks grant scheme, following the publication of IS 465, has been established; if so, the date on which the panel was established; the membership of the panel; its terms of reference; the expected timeframe for completion of its review; if not, the reason the panel has not yet been established; and the expected date by which the panel will be in place. [52890/26]
View answer430. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the Government will consider restoring grants for the recommended demolition and rebuild (Option 1) for homeowners who commenced this option at their own expense and were previously downgraded to a lesser option by the Housing Agency; as the publication of the revised Irish Standard I.S. 465:2026 now confirms that Option 1 was the only viable solution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53545/26]
View answer432. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider a review option and compensation scheme for homeowners who proceeded with an option 1 demolition and rebuild of their home under the defective concrete blocks grant scheme, in line with the recommendation of their engineer but not in line with the option provided for by the Housing Agency, following the introduction of the I.S. 465: 2026 based on the up-to-date scientific evidence. [53592/26]
View answerI propose to take Question No 399, Question No 430 and Question No 432 together.
The Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022 as amended by the Act of 2025 underpins the Grant Scheme which provides grant funding to people whose homes have been affected by Defective Concrete Blocks (DCB).
A number of amendments contained in the 2025 Act came into operation on 25 February 2026 and more recently further provisions commenced on 27 May 2026.
The National Standards Authority Ireland (NSAI) have recently (2 June 2026) published a revised standard, I.S. 465:2026.
As per section 51 of the 2022 DCB Act, I now intend to launch a review of the operation of the Act as quickly as possible. The review will be carried out by my Department, with such expert input as they may require, or by external parties if it is deemed necessary. My Department is finalising a Terms of Reference.
The Review will commence shortly and measures are being put in place to ensure this happens in line with the terms of the 2022 Act as set down.
A number of aspects of the Act will be reviewed and matters relating to remediation options, and costs relating to remediation works may be considered as part of the review.
The review will make recommendations regarding several aspects of the Act and how they interact with the DCB Grant Scheme. It is not possible to provide a timeframe for its completion at this point in time.
400. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the Local Government Reform Act 2014 removed the status of Kilkenny as a city, and that it continued to have the special clauses inserted in the legislation to ensure the continuation of this status and elect a mayor in line with all previous legislation enacted, such as the Local Government Act 2001 and all other legislation since the charter of King James 1 in 1609 and if he will clarify this matter and remove any confusion therein. [52934/26]
View answerSection 10 of the Local Government Act 2001 provided for the continued use of the description city in relation to Kilkenny to the extent that description was used before the establishment day, 1 January 2002, and was not otherwise inconsistent with the Act. This provision was retained as part of the local government reforms introduced under the Local Government Reform Act 2014.
The 2014 Act introduced many structural changes in the local government system in Ireland, which came into effect from 1 June 2014. These included the merging of the city and county councils of Waterford and Limerick and the two county councils in Tipperary, the dissolution of town councils, the introduction of municipal districts and a new regional assembly structure.
As part of these reforms, section 22A of the 2001 Act, as inserted by the 2014 Act, provides that a municipal district containing the former borough of Kilkenny be known as the Municipal District of Kilkenny City.
401. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the amount expended by the NPWS in respect of clearing and disposing of illegally dumped materials on sites it manages in 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026, by year, site and amount expended; and the steps the NPWS has taken to mitigate and prevent dumping on its sites. [52988/26]
View answerFor the most part it is the staff of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of my Department who remove debris and rubbish as part of their routine patrols and as the need arises.
In most areas, this dumping activity remains sporadic and does not warrant a separate accounting line to record costs incurred. In some areas, these tasks are supplemented by local organisations, for example in Co. Wicklow the PURE project is an environmental partnership project and the first of its kind in Ireland which incorporates statutory and non-statutory organisations, including; Wicklow County Council, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, South Dublin County Council, Coillte, the NPWS, and the Wicklow Uplands Council which was established to combat illegal dumping and fly-tipping in the Wicklow / Dublin uplands areas.
402. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update in relation to the standardisation of the differential rent scheme. [52994/26]
View answerCurrently, local authorities charge rent under the 1966 Housing Act, this is known as the 'differential rent' system and is a critical piece of the State's welfare apparatus, subsidising housing costs and supporting households who can not meet their long term accommodation needs from their own resources.
The making or amending of such rent schemes is generally a matter for the executive of local authorities within broad principles set out by my Department, including that rent levels should be based on income and reflect tenants’ ability to pay and also that they contain a hardship clause, under which tenants can pay a reduced rent for a specified period and under certain circumstances.
The new Housing Plan Delivering Homes, Building Communities, commits to reviewing rents paid by local authority and AHB social housing tenants with a view to introducing a national framework that provides a consistent and equitable system of rents and protects vulnerable households. My Department is progressing, with the assistance of the Housing Agency, detailed analysis of existing rents schemes in order to explore the range of reform options that may be available. It is essential that any potential options place sufficient emphasis on achieving the best blend of equity, progressivity and sustainability, and critically, protect those on lowest incomes and at greater risk of poverty.
I will give careful consideration to the results of my Department's analysis which I expect will be submitted for my consideration later this year. Any proposal to implement a standardised national rents framework or alternative reform will be considered by Government thereafter, as appropriate.
404. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will announce the anticipated rise in income limits before the Dáil rises for the summer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53096/26]
View answer434. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to increase the qualifying threshold for social housing to allow low income workers qualify for housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53597/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 404 and 434 together.
The baseline income thresholds increased by €5,000 for all local authorities with effect from 1 January 2023. The thresholds thus increased to €40,000, €35,000 and €30,000 for Bands 1, 2 and 3 respectively. These thresholds are net income thresholds, i.e. gross household income less income tax, PRSI, Universal Social Charge and Additional Superannuation Contribution. Income is defined and assessed according to a standard Household Means Policy. The Policy provides for a range of income disregards and local authorities also have discretion to disregard income that is once-off, temporary or short-term in nature and which is outside the regular pattern of a person’s annual income.
My Department has been examining the existing income limits in the context of current market and household income conditions, including the suitability or otherwise of the current framework having regard to the significantly changed landscape since the standardised income limits were introduced. This includes examining the findings of research commissioned by my Department and this work is ongoing.
I expect that the analysis will be concluded shortly to facilitate a final determination on next steps. I am also keen to put in place a more structured and frequent process for the review of these limits going forward.
405. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of approvals on the mortgage allowance scheme by social housing tenants who are purchasing private homes, in 2023, 2024 and 2025. [53143/26]
View answerThe Mortgage Allowance scheme provides for an allowance of up to €11,450 payable over a 5-year period, to tenants or tenant purchasers of local authority housing, to assist them to purchase or have a private house built with a mortgage. The current rates are underpinned by the Housing (Mortgage Allowance) Regulations 2001 and have been in place since 1 January 2002. New applications are still being accepted by local authorities under the scheme, and further details are available on my Department's website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/service/b66ea-mortgage-allowance-scheme/
Details of the applications received and granted by local authority under the scheme are available on my Department's website at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/collection/fd048-affordable-housing-and-part-v-statistics/
406. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the schemes available that will allow a group of houses to connect to main sewerage schemes; the grants available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53229/26]
View answerWhere a connection to the public wastewater network is feasible, homeowners should engage with Uisce Éireann regarding the connection process and any applicable connection arrangements.
For areas that are not served by public wastewater infrastructure, my Department’s Rural Water Programme includes measures under which local authorities may apply for grant support for community-led wastewater projects in limited and appropriate circumstances.
There is no automatic entitlement to grant support. Applications for funding are assessed against the programme’s eligibility criteria, including technical feasibility, environmental benefits and value for money, before funding decisions are made.
The responsibility for the provision of wastewater services and the associated costs rests with the property owners concerned.
The most appropriate solution will depend on the particular circumstances, including the availability of public wastewater infrastructure, the number of properties involved and the characteristics of the area concerned. Accordingly, where a community-led wastewater project is being considered, the relevant local authority should be contacted in the first instance.
407. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department is in contact with local authorities in relation to the implementation of the national Guide to Fire Safety in Existing Traveller Accommodation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53269/26]
View answerThe Guide to Fire Safety in Existing Traveller Accommodation was published by the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) in my Department in 2019. This document contains fire safety information and advice, and information in respect of fire safety standards applicable to existing Traveller accommodation, and is a single reference document that can be referred to by local authorities for guidance (as opposed to for implementation) on these matters.
As set out in section 1.2 of the Guide, the responsibility for fire safety in each dwelling occupied as a single dwelling rests with those living in that dwelling. That section further sets out that a duty of care may exist in relation to aspects of accommodation provision where a local authority provides the accommodation, which in the case of Traveller-specific accommodation would be in reference to group housing schemes and halting sites.
Where the local authorities identify fire safety measures for action, it is open to the local authorities to submit proposals to my Department for funding for these measures on Traveller-specific accommodation sites such as the installation of fire walls between caravans/trailers on halting sites, in line with existing policies. Any proposals submitted are reviewed and approved as appropriate, and supported via the Traveller-specific funding stream.
In line with the recommendation from the earlier report entitled Report on Programme to Review and Enhance Fire Safety in Local Authority Provided Traveller Accommodation, published by NDFEM in 2016, at the request of the National Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee, the Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committees (LTACC) are requested to retain the topic of fire safety in Traveller accommodation as a standing agenda item for discussion at LTACC meetings, and are further requested to ensure that any fire safety issues identified by the local authority, are addressed at the local level.
408. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the Department, agency, body or authority responsible for the publication of SI 79/2008 - Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008; the Department, agency, body or authority responsible for updating, amending, extending or abolishing the content of SI 79/2008 - Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53279/26]
View answer409. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the Department, agency, body or authority responsible for the publication of SI 79/2008 - Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008; the Department, agency, body or authority responsible for updating, amending, extending or abolishing the content of SI 79/2008 - Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53280/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 408 and 409 together.
I, as the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage am responsible for the publication of, and any subsequent amendments to, the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 as amended (S.I. No 79/2008).
In the regulations, the local authorities are assigned the responsibility for the designation, management and monitoring of bathing sites. Separately, the Environmental Protection Agency is assigned responsibility for classifying bathing water quality, submitting national bathing water quality data to the European Commission and for ensuring that the local authorities comply with the Bathing Water Quality Regulations.
410. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of social housing units commenced and completed in County Carlow and in County Kilkenny between 1 January 2026 and 1 July 2026, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53361/26]
View answerMy Department publishes comprehensive programme-level statistics on a quarterly basis on social and affordable housing delivery activity by local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) in each local authority. These statistics provide delivery data at local authority level, including data on housing delivery versus targets. Data is available to the end of Q4 2025 and is published on the statistics page of my Department’s website (www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/). Data for Q1 2026 is being collated and will be available in due course.
My Department also publishes the Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR), which provides details of social housing developments and their location that have been completed, are under construction or are progressing through the various stages of the design and tender processes. The most recent publication is for Quarter 4 2025 and is available on my Department's website (www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/collections/social-housing-construction-projects-status-reports/). The Q1 2026 CSR is currently being compiled and will be published soon.
411. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide details of all grant schemes currently available through his Department for which individuals or community groups are eligible to apply; the purpose of each grant scheme; the eligibility criteria; the application process; the opening and closing dates for application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53420/26]
View answerThe information requested is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy in accordance with Standing Orders.
|
Grants currently available |
Opening and closing dates |
Eligibility and application process Links provided |
|
Conservation Advice Grant Scheme for Traditional Houses |
Typically opens in March or April with a closing date in May. Dates are subject to change, while the scheme itself is subject to funding. |
www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/conservation-advice-grant-scheme-for-traditional-houses/ |
|
Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant |
July 2022 Ongoing |
www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/vacant-property-refurbishment-grant/ |
|
Vacant Above the Shop Grant |
July 2022 Ongoing |
www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/vacant-above-the-shop-grant/ |
|
Expert Advice Grant |
July 2022 Ongoing |
www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/expert-advice-grant/ |
|
Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and Disabled People. Mobility Aids Grant |
Ongoing |
Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and Disabled People (Private Houses) |
|
Thatching Grant |
Ongoing |
Thatching Grant |
|
Restoration Retrofit Pilot Programme (Wild Atlantic Nature LIFE Project) |
Ongoing |
Restoration-Retrofit Pilot - Wild Atlantic Nature |
|
Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme (PNCES) |
Ongoing |
Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme 2026 | National Parks & Wildlife Service |
|
Protected Raised Bog Restoration Incentive Scheme (PRBRIS) |
Ongoing |
www.npws.ie/peatlands-and-turf-cutting/protected-raised-bog-restoration-incentive-scheme-prbris |
412. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if Waterways Ireland has issued encroachment licences on the River Shannon or its lakes in the past two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53437/26]
View answer413. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if Waterways Ireland has issued an encroachment licence on SAP'S and SPA'S on the river Shannon or its lakes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53438/26]
View answer414. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if Waterways Ireland has issued encroachment licences; if they went before the North South Ministerial Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53439/26]
View answer415. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if Waterways Ireland has issued encroachment licences; if they are generating revenue for Waterways Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53440/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 412 to 415, inclusive, together.
Waterways Ireland is a North South Implementation Body established under the British Irish Agreement of 10 April 1998. It is funded by my Department and the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland.
The detailed information requested in relation to Waterways Ireland's response to encroachments on its navigation network is not held in my Department. However, arrangements have been put in place by all bodies under the aegis of my Department to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. This provides a speedy, efficient and cost-effective system to address queries directly to the relevant bodies. The contact email address for Waterways Ireland is oireachtas@waterwaysireland.org.
416. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether Galway City Council has drawn-down funding provided through call two of the urban regeneration and development fund for the development of an innovation and creativity district designed to build deep structural links between the city, academia, research, innovators and industry comprising of four projects (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53443/26]
View answerOn 5 March last, I announced a new Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund which, while replacing the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), will continue to build on its success to date and apply many of the key criteria established by Government in 2018 for the URDF. The new Fund will continue to support urban regeneration projects and the development of sustainable communities through the provision of part-funding for applicant-led projects. In doing so, it will significantly contribute to the regeneration and rejuvenation of Ireland’s cities and other large towns, in line with the objectives of the National Planning Framework and the National Development Plan.
Earlier this year, the new Fund was open for applications for two categories of funding. Category 1A funding will create a pipeline of future projects for delivery whereas Category 1B is focussed on capital projects that can deliver within the short to medium term. The assessment process for these applications is expected to be completed later in the summer
To date, there have been three calls for funding provided under the URDF which has resulted in the allocation of €1.9 billion of funding, with URDF supported projects active in every local authority area in the Country.
While responsibility for the advancement of these projects through the various stages of the project lifecycle is a matter for relevant local authorities, my Department continues to work closely with them in respect of project development. In that context, my Department has been engaging with Galway City Council on a review of its existing projects already approved under Calls 1 and 2. This review is being carried out with a view to maximising the funding available within the lifetime of the programme, thereby ensuring the timely delivery of these transformative projects.
Galway City's Innovation and Creativity District Proposal is a URDF Call 2 project which supports the strategic enabling and development of a masterplan or vision plan incorporating a project charter/brief, business assessment and a dedicated delivery design team to develop the comprehensive master plan.
Subject to the outcome of the review outlined above, the proposal has an approved allocation of €4,366,893, inclusive of €66,893 in resource funding which was approved in November 2025. €981,303 of funding has been drawn down for this proposal to-date.
417. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether Galway City Council has drawn-down the full funding provided through call two of the urban regeneration and development fund for progression of a transport connectivity proposal which focuses on connectivity, permeability, facilitating compact growth and creating multi-modal connections and is comprised of four projects (details supplied). [53444/26]
View answerOn 5 March last, I announced a new Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund which, while replacing the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), will continue to build on its success to date and apply many of the key criteria established by Government in 2018 for the URDF. The new Fund will continue to support urban regeneration projects and the development of sustainable communities through the provision of part-funding for applicant-led projects. In doing so, it will significantly contribute to the regeneration and rejuvenation of Ireland’s cities and other large towns, in line with the objectives of the National Planning Framework and the National Development Plan.
Earlier this year, the new Fund was open for applications for two categories of funding. Category 1A funding will create a pipeline of future projects for delivery whereas Category 1B is focussed on capital projects that can deliver within the short to medium term. The assessment process for these applications is expected to be completed later in the summer
There have been three calls for funding provided under the former URDF which has resulted in the allocation of €1.9 billion of funding, with URDF supported projects active in every local authority area in the Country. While Calls 1 and 2 were for specific regeneration projects, the third round of funding (Call 3) is specifically focussed towards addressing long term vacancy and dereliction, while supporting the key objectives of Housing for All and Town Centre First. While responsibility for the advancement of these projects through the various stages of the project lifecycle is a matter for relevant local authorities, my Department continues to work closely with them in respect of project development.
In that context, my Department has been engaging with Galway City Council on a review of its existing projects already approved under Calls 1 and 2. This review is being carried out with a view to maximising the funding available within the lifetime of the programme, thereby ensuring the timely delivery of these transformative projects.
The Galway City Council Transport Connectivity Proposal is a URDF Call 2 project which focuses on connectivity, permeability, facilitating compact growth and creating multi-modal connections that will support an employment-based population while factoring in the future climate adaptation needs of the population. Subject to the outcome of the review outlined above, the proposal has an approved allocation of €41,198,425, inclusive of €1.75m in LA resource funding which was approved in November 2025. €19,117,394 has been drawn down for this proposal to date.
418. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has details on the proportion of the allocated €39.44 million spent on each individual project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53445/26]
View answerOn 5 March last, I announced a new Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund which, while replacing the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), will continue to build on its success to date and apply many of the key criteria established by Government in 2018 for the URDF. The new Fund will continue to support urban regeneration projects and the development of sustainable communities through the provision of part-funding for applicant-led projects. In doing so, it will significantly contribute to the regeneration and rejuvenation of Ireland’s cities and other large towns, in line with the objectives of the National Planning Framework and the National Development Plan.
Earlier this year, the new Fund was open for applications for two categories of funding. Category 1A funding will create a pipeline of future projects for delivery whereas Category 1B is focussed on capital projects that can deliver within the short to medium term. The assessment process for these applications is expected to be completed later in the summer.
There have been three calls for funding provided under the former URDF which has resulted in the allocation of €1.9 billion of funding, with URDF supported projects active in every local authority area in the Country. While Calls 1 and 2 were for specific regeneration projects, the third round of funding (Call 3) is specifically focussed towards addressing long term vacancy and dereliction, while supporting the key objectives of Housing for All and Town Centre First. While responsibility for the advancement of these projects through the various stages of the project lifecycle is a matter for relevant local authorities, my Department continues to work closely with them in respect of project development.
In that context, my Department has been engaging with Galway City Council on a review of its existing projects already approved under Calls 1 and 2. This review is being carried out with a view to maximising the funding available within the lifetime of the programme, thereby ensuring the timely delivery of these transformative projects.
While not explicitly stated, I understand the question relates to the Galway City Council Transport Connectivity Proposal, as the amount stated of €39.44 million matches the current URDF allocation for works on the project.
The Galway City Council Transport Connectivity Proposal is a URDF Call 2 project which focuses on connectivity, permeability, facilitating compact growth and creating multi-modal connections that will support an employment-based population while factoring in the future climate adaptation needs of the population. Subject to the outcome of the review outlined above, the proposal has an approved allocation of €41,198,425, inclusive of €1.75m in LA resource funding which was approved in November 2025. €19,117,394 has been drawn down for this proposal to date. €12,951,738 of this has been spent on the Ceannt Quarter Regeneration Project and €6,165,656 has been spent on the Galway City Cycle Network project.
419. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the key measures taken to expand social housing provision since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53470/26]
View answerUnder Delivering Homes, Building Communities, the Government is targeting the delivery of 300,000 new homes by 2030, including 72,000 social homes. The plan seeks to significantly scale-up delivery of new-build social homes to an average of 12,000 homes per year and includes key measures to support local authorities to achieve this and, thereby, reduce their waiting lists. These measures include:
• The new single approval process for all new build social housing projects up to a value of €200m;
• Mandating the use of standard house layouts and specifications for Social Housing;
• Facilitating the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) through a standardised design approach;
• Introducing a revamped renewal programme focused on tackling dereliction and vacancy in social housing;
• Expanding the role and remit of the Land Development Agency (LDA);
• Expanding and streamlining the operation of the Land Acquisition Fund;
• Financially incentivising local authorities to exceed annual ‘own build’ social housing targets;
• Funding ring-fenced social and affordable 'new-build' housing delivery teams in each local authority.
• A transition to a call for proposals approach for the delivery of social homes funded via the P&A CALF funding model which will enhance the suitability of homes being made available to local authorities.
• In addition, the Housing Activation Office (HAO) will identify and seek to address barriers to the delivery of public infrastructure projects required to enable housing development.
Under Delivering Homes, Building Communities, each local authority will prepare a Housing Delivery Action Plan (HDAP) setting out their planned delivery of social and affordable housing to 2030 in line with targets set by my Department in order to ensure the 72,000 social homes will be delivered by 2030. In preparing their HDAP, each local authority will reflect local need to ensure the right mix of homes to respond to local need and priorities.
It should be noted that existing HDAPs run to the end of 2026 and it is expected that new HDAPs, which will run to 2030, will be in place by the end of Q3 2026. Each local authority's current HDAP is published on their individual websites.
The social housing build target for 2026 is 10,200 homes. Building on the record delivery of 9,088 social homes in 2025, there is a strong approved pipeline of projects in place for 2026 delivery, which suggests, subject to projects being satisfactorily progressed on site by local authorities and AHBs, that the 2026 target can be achieved.
My Department publishes the Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR), which provides details of social housing developments and their location that have been completed, are under construction or are progressing through the various stages of the design and tender processes. The CSR is available for analysis on my Department’s website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/cb885-social-housing-construction-projects-status-reports/
My Department also publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis, on affordable housing delivery including cost rental delivery activity by local authorities and other delivery partners. These are published on the statistics page of my Department’s website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/
The Government is committed to supporting local authorities to accelerate housing delivery across all available channels.
