asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the urgent need for houses in County Dublin; if he is satisfied that, relatively, the number of houses being erected by the local authorities is sufficient, in view of the extent of building being carried on by private enterprise; and further, if he will state what assistance or facilities his Department propose to afford the local authorities building houses in County Dublin.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housebuilding in County Dublin.
I am aware of the need for the provision of houses in County Dublin. According to the last survey of the housing needs of County Dublin, Dún Laoghaire, and Balbriggan, it was estimated that 2,000 houses are required in County Dublin, 1,000 in Dún Laoghaire and 92 in Balbriggan.
With regard to County Dublin, I have confirmed a Compulsory Purchase Order which authorises the acquisition of land for the building of 998 labourers' cottages. Plans have been prepared for 11 groups comprising 498 cottages and the preparation of plans for the remainder is well advanced. I anticipate that work on the development of the sites for these cottages will be commenced in the near future. In addition, a scheme of 12 houses at Santry has been approved and will shortly be undertaken. I have recently approved of the acceptance of a tender for the erection of 83 houses in Dún Laoghaire and building work is in progress. Land has been acquired by the Dún Laoghaire Corporation for a further 218 houses and plans are in course of preparation.
Provision has been made in the county council scheme already referred to for the erection of 82 houses in the Balbriggan area to meet the needs of the town. In addition the preparation of a scheme of 20 houses is under consideration by the Balbriggan Town Commissioners.
Contributions to annual loan charges will be made to the local authorities at the appropriate rates set out in Section 6 of the Housing (Financial and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1932, and a capital sum grant will be made from the transition fund. A copy of a circular letter addressed to local authorities with regard to the financing of housing schemes is being forwarded to the Deputy. I am satisfied the local authorities in County Dublin are doing everything in their power to meet the need for new dwellings.
Is it not correct that the Order in connection with the acquisition of this land is being contested in the High Court by the land owners, which will delay matters?
Yes, in one case it is so.
Only in one case?
So far as I know at the moment.