Written Answers Nos. 347-370
347. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the latest data on the amounts levied, collected, owed and cumulatively owed, and the number of sites on each register, for the derelict sites levy, by local authority, in tabular form, for 2023. [22515/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraLocal Authorities are required to submit an annual return to my Department providing information on the operation of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 (the Act) in their functional areas. The information requested and provided in respect of 2023 is set out on the attached Table.
348. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide all data available on the CPO activation programme launched in April 2023. [22531/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTackling vacancy is a key priority for this Government.
The Vacant Homes Action Plan, which I launched in January 2023, outlines the significant progress that has been made in addressing vacancy, along with the actions that are being pursued to return vacant properties back into use as homes. Last month, I launched the Vacant Homes Action Plan, Progress Report April 2024 which sets out what has been achieved in 2023 and the further steps that will be taken in 2024.
Under the Action Plan, a new CPO Activation Programme was launched by my Department in April 2023. The Programme supports a proactive and systematic approach by local authorities to the activation of vacant properties. It also includes guidance for local authorities to actively use their legislative powers to acquire vacant and derelict properties, where engagement with owners has been unsuccessful. Support and guidance on implementation of the Programme is being provided to local authorities by the Vacant Homes Unit in my Department and by the Property Optimisation Unit in the Housing Agency.
My Department set targets for each local authority on the number of properties to enter the Programme in 2023. Each local authority is to provide data in relation to these properties, activity undertaken by them and outcomes, including the scheme or measure used where the property was brought back into use. My Department will report on the 2023 CPO Activation Programme targets in Q2 2024.
349. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide the number of social homes acquired through long-term leasing in Cork; to provide detail on the length and cost of each leasing agreement, from 2020 to date, by year and local area, in tabular form. [22543/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra350. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide the number of social homes acquired through long-term leasing in Kerry; to provide detail on the length and cost of each leasing agreement, from 2020 to date, by year and local area, in tabular form. [22544/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 349 and 350 together.
The Social Housing Current Expenditure Programme (SHCEP) supports the delivery of social housing by providing financial support to local authorities for the leasing of houses and apartments. Dwellings under the scheme come from a number of different sources including private owners, Part V and Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs).
Long term lease arrangements can be entered into by either local authorities or approved housing bodies (AHBs) for periods of between 10 and 25 years.
Details of the number of units delivered and the funding of the long term leasing scheme from 2020 to 2023 by local authority can be found on my Department's website at the following links:
www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/
Rebuilding Ireland delivery 2020 to 2021* - assets.gov.ie/111507/a67d5995-8536-48ba-8e45-67374dd1673d.xlsx
* Under Rebuilding Ireland Part V leasing delivery was counted towards build delivery
Housing for All delivery 2022 to 2023 - assets.gov.ie/236006/560e860d-13ed-4c4e-8666-58b14746ccad.xlsx
Funding - assets.gov.ie/99984/d10e5f7c-a0f5-40ab-9ccf-0559e22f3afa.xlsx
The long term leasing scheme includes properties leased by AHBs directly, leased by local authorities from private owners, Enhanced leasing, and Part V Leasing.
Data for Q1 2024 is currently being compiled and will be available in the coming weeks.
351. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if it is acceptable for an approved housing body (details supplied) to ask one of its tenants to cover the cost of an attic conversion in a situation in which there is additional housing need due to overcrowding; if this is Department policy; whether it applies to all approved housing bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22556/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSection 63 of the Housing Act 1966 deals with overcrowding and inter alia establishes effective limits on the numbers of people that can occupy the same bedroom. Accordingly, a property will be considered overcrowded when the number of people normally sleeping there and the number of bedrooms are such that any two people, if they are older than 10 years old and of the opposite gender, must sleep in the same room. Additionally, the Act requires that there is at least 400 cubic feet of free air space for each person in a bedroom.
Requests for housing transfers are considered solely by the relevant local authority concerned in accordance with that authority’s allocation scheme, which is made by the elected members under section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and in compliance with Social Housing Allocation Regulations 2011, as amended.
It is a matter for the local authority to decide the conditions to be met in relation to transfer applications. Local authorities will have regard to the existing accommodation of such households, including the extent to which it may be overcrowded.
Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) are independent, not-for-profit organisations. They provide affordable rented housing for people who cannot afford to pay private sector rents or buy their own homes; or for particular groups, such as older people or homeless people.
Although an AHB is responsible for the management and maintenance of these dwellings, if the AHB is in receipt of a relevant Exchequer funding scheme, it must fully comply with the terms and conditions of that scheme.
In relation to renovations or extensions, it is a matter for each individual AHB to decide where this may be necessary or feasible.
352. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to confirm if the universal cost ceilings for housing have been updated since they were issued by his Department in 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22587/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand the Question is referring to the Unit Cost Ceilings, now referred to as Basic Unit Costs (BUCs), which specifically relate to social housing build projects developed directly by local authorities or AHBs on LA/AHB owned lands, using Public Works forms of contract. Updated BUCs are regularly issued to local authorities with the most recent dating from April 2023. Work is nearing completion on a further update with an intention to issue revised BUCs to local authorities by the end of May 2024.
353. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will outline, given that applicants for social housing require a demonstrated connection to the area in which they are applying, how somebody (details supplied) who has recently received a stamp 4 visa, despite having lived without documentation in Dublin city for the past 12 years in various hostels, demonstrated eligibility; and what documentation will be required for them to establish eligibility for social housing in order that they can find housing. [22613/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraApplications for social housing support are assessed by the relevant local authority, in accordance with 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.
The Regulations provide that households may apply for support to one local authority only. Usually, this will be the local authority for the area in which the household normally resides or with which the household has a local connection. In accordance with the regulations, local authorities may also, at their discretion, assess households with no link to the area for support.
Decisions on the qualification of specific persons for social housing support, the most appropriate form of any such support, and the allocation of that support are a matter solely for the local authority concerned.
354. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will examine an anomaly within local authorities in the recruitment of engineer grades (details supplied); if there will be a review of the current situation given that many local authorities are struggling to fill and attract talent to skilled roles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22666/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSection 160 of the Local Government Act 2001 provides the Minister with the power to declare qualifications of such classes and descriptions as he or she thinks fit for a specified employment under a local authority or for such of the employments as belong to a specified class, description or grade. Orders made under section 160 of the Local Government Act 2001 declaring qualifications for engineering roles in the local government sector are available on my Department's website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/c450a-engineering-services-in-local-authorities-qualifications/.
The recruitment and filling of posts in the local authority sector is undertaken both by individual local authorities and the Public Appointments Service depending on the level and tenure of the post concerned. Section 160(1)(c) of the Local Government Act 2001 provides that a person is not be appointed to any employment under a local authority for which qualifications are for the time being declared under section 160 unless he or she possesses those qualifications.
My Department undertakes reviews of declared qualifications as necessary and has recently commenced a review of the suite of current engineering qualifications declared under section 160 of the Local Government Act 2001. The purpose of the review is to determine if changes are required in order that the qualifications are appropriate and relevant to the role of an engineer at the various engineering levels in a local authority.
355. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the marine protected areas Bill 2022; the timeline for publication of the Bill, which was promised by quarter 1 of 2024; the reason for the delay in publication; the expected timeline for the Bill's passage through the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22678/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe general scheme of the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Bill was published in December 2022. Following the scrutiny of the Joint Oireachtas Committee, my Department has been working in close collaboration with parliamentary drafters to develop this Bill. While it was initially hoped to publish in 2023, the legal, technical and scientific complexity associated with this ground breaking legislation has meant that drafting has taken longer than anticipated. However, drafting is now at a very advanced stage and I expect that it will be ready for publication shortly and hope that it will be speedily enacted.
356. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of purpose-built childcare facilities that have been built each year since the introduction of the Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Childcare Facilities issued as ministerial guidelines under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000; the number of childcare facilities that became operational; the number that remain operational today; the reason there has not been a purpose-built childcare facility for each 75-dwelling development since the introduction of the guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22698/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) has policy responsibility for improving access to high quality and affordable Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare.
My Department does not record the data requested, and has no function in this regard.
The current Guidelines for Planning Authorities relating to Childcare Facilities were issued in 2001 by my Department under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. Planning Authorities and An Bord Pleanála are required to have regard to the Guidelines in carrying out their functions under the Planning and Development Act, 2000.
The Guidelines set out a methodology for calculating an adequate provision of childcare places in respect of planning applications for residential development, and were intended to ensure a consistency of approach in this regard.
From a national planning policy perspective, the National Planning Framework (NPF), published in 2018, recognises the importance of the provision of childcare facilities specifying that “the continued provision and enhancement of facilities and amenities for childcare and young people such as childcare, schools, playgrounds, parks and sportsgrounds, remains necessary and will need to be maintained at similar levels for the foreseeable thereafter”.
Furthermore, the NPF includes a specific National Strategic Outcome 10 entitled Access to Quality Childcare, Education and Health Services, while National Policy Objective 31 identifies the requirement to invest in ‘…a childcare/ECCE planning function, for monitoring, analysis and forecasting of investment needs, including identification of regional priorities; The provision of childcare facilities and new and refurbished schools on well-located sites within or close to existing built-up areas, that meet the diverse needs of local populations…’;
The planning system has an important role to play in supporting the development and delivery of adequate childcare services through the inclusion of a mandatory objective in each city and county development plan, as is legislatively required.
DCEDIY has recently established a Supply Management Unit. I understand that a key part of the Supply Management Unit’s remit is to develop a planning function, for monitoring, analysing and forecasting of the supply and demand for early learning and childcare in a nuanced and specific way at local area level.
357. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will issue a circular to local authorities providing guidance on the issue of social housing tenants in Part V units and access to communal facilities in multiple-unit developments to ensure fair access to communal facilities for all residents in line with the Part V objective of promoting social integration in mixed-tenure developments. [22699/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Part V mechanism is intended to achieve integrated development and reduce housing segregation by facilitating a mix of a tenure types, that is social, affordable and cost rental housing, in applicable developments on any land that is zoned residential (either exclusively or mixed use) or is granted planning permission for houses as a material contravention of the development plan.
While Part V negotiations are a matter for the relevant local authority, operating within the Ministerial Guidelines on Part V issued to local authorities under section 28 of the 2000 Act, the need to counteract undue segregation in housing between persons of different social backgrounds is a specific requirement of local authorities provided for in the 2000 Act. The Guidelines emphasise the need for consultation with developers regarding the delivery of appropriately located properties at the earliest stage possible, preferably in advance of planning. This early consultation allows local authorities to consider the need, and the likely future need, for housing for persons who have different levels of income, as well as the need to ensure that a mixture of house types and sizes is developed to reasonably match the requirements of the different categories of households, as may be determined by the local authority. I have no plans to issue further guidelines to local authorities regarding these matters at the present time.
The challenge local authorities face when negotiating Part V agreements in apartment complexes that provide additional community amenities over and above the standard open space requirements, for example gyms, cinema rooms, co-working areas etc., is that these amenities are funded by additional charges levied on top of the management company service charge. It is a matter for each local authority to decide to pay these additional amenity contribution costs from local authority funds on a case by case basis, or to explore the option for tenants to pay these costs directly to the relevant entity charging the fee. It is my understanding that generally local authorities opt out of the additional amenity levies, as these can be a significant extra cost and are not provided to tenants of other forms of social housing.
358. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to develop a website that offers the same benefits as a website (details supplied) for persons to report issues in the public realm. [22813/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe fixyourstreet.ie website was a shared service of local authorities, operated by South Dublin County Council on behalf of all 31 local authorities, which ceased operations from 5 August 2022. Following the closure of fixyourstreet.ie, service issues should be reported to each individual local authority.
While my Department managed the funding for shared services in the set up phase via the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), neither I nor my Department had a role in the operation of the fixyourstreet.ie shared service nor in the decision that the service would cease. There are currently no plans within my Department to develop or fund the development of a replacement for fixyourstreet.ie.
359. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if foundations will be included in the IS 465 review with respect to the defective concrete blocks scheme. [22818/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI commenced the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022 (the Act) on 22 June 2023 which contains the enhanced grant scheme and adopted the related Regulations on 29 June 2023.
Arising from the Government Decision of 30 November 2021 in respect of the enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks (DCB) grant scheme, the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) was tasked with delivering a programme of work to address a number of technical items. An interagency DCB Technical Matters Steering Group has been established to inform and guide the NSAI review of a number of relevant standards including I.S. 465:2018, and the impact, if any on foundations and the effect, if any, of full cavity fill insulation on homes susceptible to defective blockwork.
A number of research proposals developed by the relevant NSAI Technical Committees, including research to investigate pyrrhotite oxidation in concrete blocks and the potential impact of deleterious materials on foundations, have been commissioned and are making good progress.
The NSAI is Ireland’s official standards body and is an autonomous body under the aegis of the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment. I understand they are working on drafting interim guidance that will take the form of an amendment to I.S. 465 to enhance the sampling and testing protocols within the standard. The NSAI have confirmed the amendment will serve as a step forward in the review and development process of I.S. 465 noting the full evaluation of I.S. 465 continues to be reliant on the delivery of the final outputs of key research projects.
Following the publication of any revised standard published by the NSAI, the DCB grant scheme will be reviewed at that point, in the event that such amendments are required.
360. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if, in relation to the Housing Agency’s Housing First policy, acknowledging that hostel accommodation is unsuitable for some individuals recovering from substance addictions, how an individual who is receiving residential treatment for addiction, but who is not approaching housing through the housing list, can find accommodation suitable to their addiction journey after their time in residential treatment comes to an end; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22833/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department’s role in relation to homelessness involves the provision of a national framework of policy, legislation and funding to underpin the role of local authorities in addressing homelessness at a local level. Statutory responsibility in relation to the provision of homeless accommodation and related services rests with individual local authorities.
While responsibility for the provision of homeless accommodation and related services rests with individual housing authorities, the administration of homeless services is organised on a regional basis with a lead authority in place for each region. A homelessness consultative forum has been established in each region in accordance with Chapter 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2009. Decisions on the range of emergency accommodation services and funding required in each region are a matter for individual housing authorities in consultation with the Management Group of the relevant regional joint Homelessness Consultative Forum. It is a matter for the Management Group to bring forward proposals to my Department that meet the needs of homeless individuals in their administrative area and the funding requirements will be considered in this context.
Local authorities and their service delivery partners work closely with all households in emergency accommodation to support them to secure an exit to a tenancy. If a household meets the eligibility and need criteria for social housing supports, it qualifies for the suite of social housing supports, including Housing Assistance Payment (HAP), and is placed on the housing list to be considered for the allocation of suitable tenancies in accordance with the authority’s allocation scheme.
Housing First recognises that a stable home provides the basis for recovery in other areas. With Housing First, the priority is to support a person who has experienced homelessness into permanent housing as quickly as possible, without any preconditions around addiction or mental health treatment. Then, intensive work continues on these issues once they are housed. Housing First has been a key element of Government homelessness policy.
Housing First service providers assess rough sleepers and long-term users of emergency accommodation for suitability for Housing First and if they meet the criteria they are supported to access Housing First units. These criteria are further outlined in the Housing First Manual for Ireland, which is available at the following link: www.housingagency.ie/sites/default/files/A_HOUSING_FIRST_MANUAL_IRELAND.pdf
361. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if individual local authorities have any discretion in terms of social housing tenants being able to transfer into a property, whether AHB or council owned, in a different local authority area. [22852/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraRequests for housing transfers are considered solely by the relevant local authority concerned in accordance with that authority’s allocation scheme, which is made by the elected members under section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and in compliance with Social Housing Allocation Regulations 2011, as amended.
Allocation schemes shall apply to dwellings owned or under the control of local authorities, as well as dwellings provided by Approved Housing Bodies with Exchequer funding.
Local authorities are responsible for assessing housing applicants, taking into account factors such as the condition and affordability of existing accommodation, medical and compassionate grounds, etc. The authority then prioritises the needs of approved applicants in accordance with its allocation scheme. Ultimately, it is a matter for the local authority to decide the conditions to be met in relation to transfer applications. Some local authorities have provisions in their allocation schemes for inter-authority and mutual transfers for sitting tenants whereby the authority is prepared to accommodate applications provided certain criteria are met. Such arrangements are entirely a matter for the local authorities concerned.
362. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department is responsible for introducing renewable acceleration areas into planning law; if so, when this will be done; and if it will require primary legislation or regulations. [22853/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDirective (EU) 2023/2413 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 Oct 2023, known as the Renewable Energy Directive III ('RED III') for the promotion of energy from renewable sources, entered into force in November 2023. RED III amends Directive (EU) 2018/2001, Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 and Directive 98/70/EC and repeals Council Directive (EU) 2015/652.
The Department of Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) is the lead Department with overall responsibility for ensuring transposition of this Directive. The planning system will play an important role in ensuring the Renewable Energy Directive III is comprehensively transposed and implemented. On that basis, my Department is working closely with colleagues in DECC on transposition measures as appropriate.
Article 16a of the Directive provides for renewable acceleration areas and providing for such areas will likely require amendments to planning law. My Department is working closely with colleagues in DECC on these provisions in order to meeting the deadline for transposition of this Article, which is 21 May 2025.
363. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if Part V acquisitions and leases are executive or reserved functions. [22867/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraPart V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 requires private developers to ensure that a specified percentage of land zoned for residential and other uses is reserved for social and affordable housing. Local authorities negotiate Part V agreements with the developer in line with a range of guidelines and supports aimed at assisting them in maximising the benefits of Part V in the context of its housing needs.
The making of Part V agreements with developers, which include acquisitions and leasing arrangements, is an executive function.
364. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the estimated timeframe for when the next round of urban regeneration and development funding is to be announced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22889/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraA flagship element of Project Ireland 2040, the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) was one of four new funds established under the National Development Plan (NDP) 2018 – 2027. Launched in 2018 with committed Exchequer funding of €2 billion the review of the NDP in 2021 extended the URDF to 2030.
To date, there have been three rounds of funding provided under the URDF with more than €1.9 billion allocated so far. While Call 1 and 2 was for specific proposals, the latest round of funding (Call 3) is supporting a programme of acquisitions in each local authority to address long term vacancy and dereliction. Under Call 1 and Call 2 there were 132 proposals, comprising of almost 400 projects, approved for funding.
Subject to additional funding being made available, it is intended to launch a fourth round of funding support in 2024. A fourth round of funding would provide an opportunity for a number of ‘pipeline’ projects which have or will emerge from master planning exercises carried out under Call 1 or Call 2 to be considered for funding. It would also support a number of key settlements that have not yet received the level of funding required to support the growth proposed for them in the NPF and the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies.
By targeting support in an integrated, dynamic and responsive way, the fund has proved to be a game changer, injecting momentum into the advancement of local authority plans for regeneration and development of our towns and cities, with URDF supported projects now active in every local authority area in the country.
365. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to Parliamentary Question No. 360 of 14 May 2024, the reason HAP tenants who avail of inter-authority movement can only be offered access to the transfer list of the originating local authority; and if he will consider issuing a circular to allow for flexibility and discretion around this for local authorities. [22916/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe flexibility of HAP as a social housing support is one of the scheme’s key characteristics. Households eligible for social housing support are provided with the opportunity to avail of HAP in any local authority area; subject to the current Social Housing Eligibility Income Bands or confirmation that the applicants’ income is below the threshold in the new local authority.
Where a household currently on a local authority waiting list wishes to access rented accommodation with HAP support in another local authority area, this can be facilitated subject to a number of principles, including that the household continues to be dealt with by the originating local authority and are subject to the originating local authority differential rent scheme, scheme of letting priorities and transfer list.
HAP tenants who avail of inter-authority movement can only be offered access to the transfer list in their originating local authority where they are currently on the waiting list.
Households should apply for social housing support from the local authority in whose area they see their long term housing needs being met. Should a household who is already on a local authority’s waiting list wish to source HAP supported rented accommodation in a local authority outside of the allowable inter-authority movement principles, the household would be required to be reassessed for social housing support in the new local authority area.
The practical operation of transfer lists is a matter for each local authority to manage, on the basis of their own scheme of letting priorities. The making of such schemes is a reserved function of the local authority and as such is a matter for the elected members.
366. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if, in any updates to the affordable housing scheme, he would consider increasing the threshold for single-parent families based on the number of dependants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22923/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing for All targets the delivery of 54,000 affordable homes by 2030, divided between affordable purchase homes and Cost Rental homes in the ratio of 2:1. A strong pipeline is in place and under continuous development.
In the case of Cost Rental homes, in August last year the Government increased the income thresholds for new tenancies, with net household income limits rising to €66,000 in Dublin and €59,000 elsewhere. These were introduced across the Cost Rental sector from 1 August 2023, replacing the former national net income limit of €53,000, and were implemented by the Affordable Housing Act 2021 (Cost Rental Eligibility) Regulations 2023 (S.I. No. 374/2023). The increased thresholds recognise that prevailing rents in the private market have increased significantly in recent years and a large cohort of private renters are experiencing severe affordability challenges, particularly in Dublin. The new thresholds apply to all Cost Rental homes provided under Part 3 of the Affordable Housing Act 2021.
In the case of a single-parent family, a single adult earner in the household would be able to have an individual net income limit up to the full threshold of €66,000 in Dublin and €59,000 elsewhere. The parameters for Cost Rental eligibility are kept under review to ensure the scheme effectively targets the support provided.
In the case of affordable homes purchased under the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme and the First Home Scheme, applicant eligibility is not dependent upon income or household size/composition. The eligibility checks for these schemes are property-specific and work from someone's purchasing capacity from a mortgage, savings, and any Help to Buy incentive.
367. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a new housing development at the Gallows Lane in Lifford, County Donegal, is to be used as social housing; if not, if there is another intended use for it; when it is expected people will be housed there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23003/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDonegal County Council currently has a 29-unit social housing project under construction at Gallows Lane in Lifford.
I expect that allocation of the social homes will be carried out in advance of the construction completion date in order for tenancies to commence as soon as the homes are fully completed and signed off. This is a matter for Donegal County Council.
Further information on this project is available directly from the Council.
368. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if a decision has been made on a carer's allowance application by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22340/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraCarer's allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that as a result they require that level of care.
An application for CA was received from the person concerned on 26 April 2024.
A request for further information issued to the person concerned on 2 May 2024.
Once the information is received, the application will be processed without delay and the person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
369. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if an application for exceptional needs payment can be reviewed in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22343/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme, my Department may make an Additional Needs Payment (ANP) to help meet essential expenditure which an eligible person could not reasonably be expected to meet from their weekly income. This is an overarching term used to refer to Exceptional Needs Payments (ENPs) and Urgent Needs Payments (UNPs), and certain supplements to assist with ongoing or recurring costs that cannot be met from the customer’s own resources, and which are deemed to be necessary. ANPs are administered by Designated Persons in the Community Welfare Service considering the requirements of the legislation and all the relevant circumstances of the case. Supports from my Department are not intended to cover circumstances where another Government Department or Agency has the primary responsibility. The responsibility for the provision of assistance to those who reside in Local Authority housing and require repairs and/or maintenance rests with the Local Authority. According to the records of the Department, the person concerned applied for an ANP on 07/05/2024 to assist with the cost of replacing windows and doors in their home. This claim was disallowed on the basis that there are provisions within the person’s Local Authority for these types of repairs and/or maintenance that may be required. The person concerned was advised of the outcome of their application in writing on 08/05/2024 and afforded the option of seeking a review of the Designated Person’s decision.Determinations made in relation to claims made under Sections 200, 201 and 202 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation Act) 2005, namely allowances-in-kind, ENPs and UNPs, can be reviewed by a SWA Reviewing Officer under Section 323 of that Act. Following your Parliamentary Question, a SWA Reviewing Officer reviewed the claim and considering the circumstances of the case, upheld the original decision made by the Designated Person, on the basis that the person concerned is residing in a Local Authority dwelling and therefore the responsibility for repairs/maintenance to the dwelling lies primarily with the person’s Local Authority. Correspondence issued to the person concerned on 15/05/2024 advising them of the outcome of the review. A person in this position is advised to contact their Local Authority where information is available regarding suitable supports. If the person concerned is experiencing financial difficulties with other household/cost-of-living expenses, it is open to them to make a new application for assistance by completing a SWA1 form. This form is available in all Intreo Centres and can also be requested by calling the National CWS freephone line at 0818 60 70 80 or at www.eforms.gov.ie/en/forms/5. Alternatively, if the person has a verified MyGovID account they can apply for an ANP at www.MyWelfare.ie. I trust this clarifies the matter.
370. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Social Protection to provide a list of schools participating in the hot school meals programme in Dublin 15 and Dublin 7, and any schools in Dublin 15 and Dublin 7 that have requested to be on the list but are not included in this year’s programme. [22383/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe objective of the School Meals Programme is to provide regular, nutritious food to children to support them in taking full advantage of the education provided to them. The programme is an important component of policies to encourage school attendance and extra educational achievement. Following the expansion of the programme in recent years, some 2,600 schools and organisations, covering 443,000 children are now eligible for funding.
As part of this significant expansion plan, all remaining primary schools were contacted last year and requested to submit an expression of interest form if their school is interested in commencing the provision of hot school meals. Expressions of interests were received from over 900 primary schools in respect of 150,000 children. Late last year, these schools were invited to participate in the Hot School Meals Programme from 8th April 2024. The remaining primary schools who have not yet joined the scheme have been contacted to express an interest to receive Hot School Meals from September 2024.
A list of schools participating in the hot school meals programme in Dublin 15 and Dublin 7 is contained in the following table. Two schools in these areas have requested to be on the list: Mary Mother of Hope Senior National School, Dublin 15 and St John Bosco Junior Boys' School, Dublin 7.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
Tabular Statement
Schools participating in the hot school meals programme in Dublin 15 and Dublin 7 2023-24
|
Roll Number |
Organisation Name |
Address |
|
19601H |
ST PHILIP THE APOSTLE JUNIOR N S |
Dublin 15 |
|
17464N |
FIONNBARRA NAOFA |
Dublin 7 |
|
19643A |
ST PHILIPS SENIOR N S |
Dublin 15 |
|
19850F |
LADYSWELL N S |
Dublin 15 |
|
20186F |
CASTAHEANY EDUCATE TOGETHER NS |
Dublin 15 |
|
16989V |
CHRIST THE KING G N S |
Dublin 7 |
|
20091R |
ST PETERS NS |
Dublin 7 |
|
19605P |
SCOIL NAIS MHUIRE SOIS |
Dublin 15 |
|
19694R |
SCOIL MHUIRE SIN |
Dublin 15 |
|
09932B |
STANHOPE ST CONVENT |
Dublin 7 |
|
20453C |
BROOMBRIDGE EDUCATE TOGETHER NATIONAL SCHOOL |
Dublin 7 |
|
05933G |
PRESENTATION PRIMARY SCHOOL |
Dublin 7 |
|
16695E |
SCOIL NA MBRATHAR BOYS SENIOR SCHOOL |
Dublin 7 |
|
16988T |
CHRIST THE KING B N S |
Dublin 7 |
|
17459U |
CHRIST THE KING I G |
Dublin 7 |
|
17465P |
DOMINICAN CONVENT GIRLS SENIOR SCHOOL |
Dublin 7 |
|
17466R |
ST CATHERINES INFANT SCHOOL |
Dublin 7 |
|
19545A |
ST. PATRICK'S JUNIOR NS |
Dublin 15 |
|
19636D |
ST PATRICKS SENIOR SCHOOL |
Dublin 15 |
|
20035H |
ST GABRIELS N S |
Dublin 7 |
|
20047O |
GAELSCOIL BHARRA |
Baile Átha Cliath 7 |
|
20241K |
SCOIL CHOILM COMMUNITY NS |
Dublin 15 |
|
20436C |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL |
Dublin 7 |
|
19039I |
ST VINCENTS HOME NS |
Dublin 7 |
|
19409P |
CASA CATERINA S S |
Dublin 7 |
|
20495S |
HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF |
Dublin 7 |
|
20548N |
DANU COMMUNITY SPECIAL SCHOOL |
Dublin 15 |
|
16675V |
SCOIL NAOMH LUCAIS |
Dublin 15 |
|
17367P |
MARY, HELP OF CHRISTIANS G.N.S. |
Dublin 7 |
|
18623M |
SCOIL NAISUNTA CHNUACHA |
Dublin 15 |
|
19755L |
SACRED HEART N S |
Dublin 15 |
|
20152L |
NORTH DUBLIN MUSLIM NS |
Dublin 7 |
|
20201V |
TYRRELSTOWN EDUCATE TOGETHER NATIONAL SCHOOL |
Dublin 15 |
|
20247W |
SCOIL GHRAINNE COMMUNITY NATIONAL SCHOOL |
Dublin 15 |
|
20309S |
MARY MOTHER OF HOPE JUNIOR NATIONAL SCHOOL |
Dublin 15 |
|
20383H |
HANSFIELD EDUCATE TOGETHER NATIONAL SCHOOL |
Dublin 15 |
|
20384J |
POWERSTOWN EDUCATE TOGETHER NATIONAL SCHOOL |
Dublin 15 |
|
20392I |
PELLETSTOWN ETNS |
Dublin 15 |
|
20394M |
GAELSCOIL AN CHUILINN |
Baile Átha Cliath 15 |
