asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state the names of the local authorities which, as stated by him in Dáil Éireann on the 10th July, 1958, did not receive Government finance for houses built by them in 1956.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Financing and Planning of Housing Schemes.
asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state the names of the local authorities which ceased house planning schemes in 1956, and the reasons for such cessation.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 57 and 58 together.
Capital overdrafts arising from delays in making issues from the Local Loans Fund for housing works were inflated over the normal level to the extent of £750,000 at the 31st March, 1957. It has not been possible, within the time available, to assemble for inclusion in this reply particulars of the several local authorities and the several overdrafts included in this total. In addition to actual indebtedness, delays in sanctioning loans for pending works resulted in housing tenders and direct labour projects being held up in the year 1956-57 to the extent of £865,000. The resulting uncertainty on the part of local authorities as to how or when their existing and prospective commitments would be met inhibited them from proceeding with the planning of further schemes which had still less prospect of being financed. I am satisfied that that tendency was a general one on the part of local authorities with housing schemes still in their preliminary stages.
Would the Minister be able to let us have further details at a later date?
Certainly. Would the Deputy like to have the details sent to him or would be put down a further question?
I shall ask again.