asked the Minister for Local Government why it was decided that a cottage over 90 years old comprising a kitchen and two small rooms each with a loft was suitable for housing a family of eight (particulars supplied), comprising three males and five females at Cappagaveen, Beaufort, County Kerry; and if, as the cottage is unsuitable for reconstruction, he will consult with Kerry County Council with a view to having a new cottage built for the family.
Ceisteanna—Questions (Resumed). - Housing of Kerry Family.
12.
It is a matter for each housing authority to decide whether or not any house in its functional area is unfit or overcrowded and to take appropriate steps to ensure that these conditions are alleviated. The circumstances of this case were the subject of recent discussions between officers of my Department and Kerry County Council and it was agreed that an up-to-date report on the condition of the cottage in question together with any proposals which the housing authority considered necessary to deal with this case would be submitted to my Department. The report is still awaited.
Is the Minister aware that an officer of his Department decided that this particular house, which has two rooms comprising a room 9 feet by 8 feet and a loft of 20 feet by 7 feet with a ceiling of 5 feet was sufficient to house eight people? Even in overcrowded conditions, they would require four rooms. This family consists of a husband and wife, a sister-in-law, who would require a room of her own, and a family of two boys and three girls. How can this officer maintain that this house, which was built 90 years ago at a cost of £80, is fit to house a family of this size? Would the Minister take up the matter with Kerry County Council and see that a new cottage is built for these people? We have been for five years trying to get a modern cottage built.
"Care for all the children of the nation."
I am asking the Minister to take this case in particular and see that Kerry County Council and the officers in his own Department come together.
That matter has been taken up with Kerry County Council and we are awaiting their report on the matter.
Question No. 13.
"To cherish the children of the nation."