Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
369. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide for housing adaptation grants to allow for eligibility for the cost of necessary equipment for children with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36088/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra404. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if grants are available to install sensory rooms in the home for people with ASD; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36648/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 369 and 404 together.
My Department provides Exchequer funding to local authorities to administer the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability, which support older and disabled people living in private houses to adapt their home to meet their needs. The suite of grants, which include the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability, the Mobility Aids Grant and the Housing Aid for Older People Grant, are 80% funded by my Department, with a 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority. The detailed administration of these schemes, including assessment, approval and prioritisation, is the responsibility of local authorities.
The Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability and the Mobility Aids Grant is available for the carrying out of works of adaptation 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. These grant schemes do not include the provision of sensory equipment. Further details on these schemes is available at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/service/6636c-housing-adaptation-grants-for-older-people-and-people-with-a-disability
