Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 October 2024
204. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to indicate that all houses accruing the local authorities or approved housing bodies are completed to a standard equal to that of all other housing in the same estates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40889/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing for All is the Government’s plan to increase the supply of housing to an average of 33,000 per year over the next decade. This includes the delivery of 90,000 social homes, 36,000 affordable purchase homes and 18,000 cost rental homes. Housing for All is supported by an investment package of over €4bn per annum, through an overall combination of €12bn in direct Exchequer funding, €3.5bn in funding through the Land Development Agency and €5bn funding through the Housing Finance Agency.
The Building Regulations came into force on 1 June 1992 and set out the legal requirements for the construction of new buildings (including houses), extensions to existing buildings as well as for material alterations and certain material changes of use to existing buildings. As and from that date, all works to which the Building Regulations relate which are carried out, must be carried out in in accordance with the Building Regulations. The aim of the Regulations is to provide for the safety and welfare of people in and about buildings.
Part 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. Local authorities have a range of options available when negotiating with developers including the transfer of land, the building and transfer of houses, the transfer of houses off-site, granting of a lease of houses, or a combination of these. Subject to the legislative provisions, local authorities are free to decide how the 20% Part V contribution is broken down in terms of social and affordable housing (with a minimum 10% social housing) and by dwelling type. This is done in line with the local authorities housing need as identified in its Housing Strategy made as part of its Development Plan.
Part V arrangements are a matter for the relevant local authority operating within the Guidelines.
