Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 24 Nov 1948

Vol. 113 No. 3

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing Grants.

asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that the intention of the Legislature is being defeated by the present method of making grants under the Housing (Amendment) Act, 1948; and, if so, whether he will take steps to amend the regulations so that grants will be made available in respect of houses in the course of construction or already completed.

Mr. Murphy

The Housing (Amendment) Act, 1948, provides that, subject, to regulations made under the Act, grants may be paid to persons erecting houses for their own occupation or for letting, and to public utility societies erecting houses for occupation by members or for letting. There is no statutory power to pay grants in respect of houses purchased in the course of construction or already completed, and amending legislation would be necessary if it were desired to make such grants.

Will the Minister consider the advisability of introducing such amending legislation, in view of the fact that the considered opinion of those engaged in the building trade and of the public generally is that such amending legislation is necessary?

Mr. Murphy

I am not satisfied that that is a correct interpretation of the public view on this matter. There is a good deal to be said for and against the particular proposals referred to. I am afraid that, at this point, I cannot promise any new legislation on this matter. The Deputy will appreciate the fact that the Housing Act has only become law within the past couple of months, and that it would be rather soon, in the ordinary course of things, to contemplate amending legislation of a radical kind in connection with it.

Will the Minister pursue the matter to the extent of considering representations?

Mr. Murphy

Yes, surely.

The remaining questions will be held over until to-morrow.

Top
Share