asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that there is a delay in dealing with applications for housing grants in the South Kerry area; and, if so, whether he will sanction the appointment of a second housing inspector so that the increased number of applications may be dealt with at an early date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Kerry Housing Grants.
Mr. T. Flynn
I am not aware of any undue delay at present in dealing with applications for grants in the South Kerry area.
The number of cases awaiting inspection in Kerry County as a whole, was, however, relatively high during the winter. An additional inspector was assigned to the Kerry-West Cork area on the 20th January last and a further measure of relief was later afforded by a transfer of the North Kerry area to the inspector for another area. A considerable reduction in the number of cases outstanding is already apparent following these steps.
Is the Minister aware that there are still a large number of cases awaiting inspection? In view of that, will he again look into the matter with a view to expediting the inspections?
I have informed the Deputy that I have already transferred an additional inspector to that area, and that a considerable reduction in the number of cases outstanding is already apparent following these steps.