Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 14 Nov 2000

Vol. 525 No. 5

Written Answers. - Local Authority Housing.

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

The operation of the tenant purchase scheme is the responsibility of the housing authority concerned subject to the terms set out in the Housing (Sale of Houses) Regulations, 1995

These regulations provide that the price of the house being purchased will be its market value, as determined by the local authority, in its existing state of repair and condition, less whatever discounts apply. In determining the market value the structural condition of the house will be taken into account and any increase in value attributable to improvements made by the tenant should be disregarded.

Should the tenant purchaser disagree with the price determined by the authority, s/he can contest the valuation but must submit a valuation certificate from a qualified valuer to support the claim. In the event of a significant difference between the authority's original valuation and that submitted by the tenant, the authority will refer the matter to the Valuation Office to determine the market value.

John Perry

Question:

289 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will ensure that a loan application by a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim under the scheme for improvement works in lieu of local authority housing is approved in view of the serious overcrowding that exists and taking into consideration the extenuating circumstances involved; if he will make a favourable decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25449/00]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

The determination of applications for improvement works in lieu of local authority housing is a matter for the local authorities and the approval of my Department is only required where the cost of the proposed works exceeds £50,000. I understand the local authority in this instance is in contact with the applicant on what works are appropriate to be undertaken.

Michael Bell

Question:

290 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the reason for the delay in commencing the remedial works scheme at St. Finian's Park, Drogheda, County Louth, which was approved by his Department on 27 May 1999, for an 11 house pilot project and later changed to 37 houses; if all details required from Drogheda Corporation have been supplied to his Department; when he will approve the tender stage; when work will commence and be completed; the cost of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25450/00]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

Since this project was designated for funding under the remedial works scheme, the corporation reviewed its approach to the refurbishment of the estate and submitted revised proposals to my Department. Additional information requested by the Department and submitted by the corporation in September 2000 is under examination and a decision regarding the seeking of tenders will issue as soon as possible.