asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that in the Gort and Loughrea Utility Society areas there has been considerable delay in inspecting sites, partly constructed buildings and completed houses, thereby delaying unduly the allocation of building grants; and, if so, whether he will expedite the allocation of these grants.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Building Grants.
Mr. Murphy
I am not aware that there is any abnormal delay on the part of the appointed officer for the Gort and Loughrea areas in making inspections and issuing certificates of approval for new house grants. On 15th November, 1948, this officer had only 11 applications in respect of which such certificates had not been issued, and in ten of those cases the issue of certificates awaited the submission of plans by the applicants.
Is the Minister aware that several applicants are already living in their houses and, in spite of repeated applications to his Department, have not received anything yet?
Mr. Murphy
I can only say, from the information before me, that the statement made in the supplementary questions appears to be entirely devoid of foundation. I would refer the Deputy to the following facts: on the 15th of November, 1948, the officer for the district referred to in the question had only 11 applications in respect of which certificates have not been issued and in ten of these cases the issue of certificates awaits the submission of plans by the applicants. If the Deputy has detailed information that contradicts that statement I should be glad to have it and to investigate it.
The Minister will get that information.