asked the Minister for Local Government whether there is any specified minimum size for a self-contained flat or bedsitter or a limit on the number of flats which may be created in a dwelling originally intended for and used by one family; if so, what are the limits; if not, if he will have steps taken to ensure that in the conversion of single dwellings into multiple dwellings no steps will be taken which would facilitate the creation of slums and overcrowded living conditions or the depreciation of adjoining properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Conversion of Dwellings.
19.
There are no prescribed limits for the matters referred to by the Deputy. However, planning permission is required for the use as two or more dwellings of any structure previously used as a single dwelling. In deciding to grant permission, a planning authority must consider the proper planning and development of the area including the preservation and improvement of its amenities.
Moreover, section 65 of the Housing Act, 1966, empowers a housing authority to serve on the owner of a house a notice specifying the maximum number and categories of persons by whom the house or any room in it may at any time be occupied, without causing overcrowding. The authority may require the owner to publish the contents of this notice in rent books or in such other manner as they may specify. Penalties, including imprisonment, are provided for contravention of the requirements of an authority. This power can be used in conjunction with the grant of planning permission for the division of a structure into separate dwellings.
Has the Minister any information as to whether any local authorities have, in fact, used the powers in the Housing Act and has he any record of actual requirements being specified by local authorities in relation to multiple dwellings?
I have no such information here but, if the Deputy likes, I will inquire as to whether any local authority has exercised these powers.
Would the Minister have regard to the fact that in Dublin there is a considerable number of dwellings being converted into multiple dwellings and complaints are being made regarding a multiplicity of these; it is alleged we are creating new slums and creating overcrowded conditions?
The local authority has powers to deal with this.
Would the Minister ensure that Dublin Corporation and other local authorities are using these powers, because it is open to doubt?
The elected members of the local authority are there to do that.
They are trying as best they can.
They have the powers.