asked the Minister for Local Government when it is proposed to introduce legislation to amend section 16 of the Housing Act, 1966, to modify the rural area qualification for higher grants in respect of low income applicants.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing Act Grants and Loans.
22.
I would refer the Deputy to my reply to his Question No. 26 on the 22nd October last. I have nothing further to add at this stage to my reply on that occasion.
Would the Minister not agree that it is unfair that because people happen to be living in a town they are declared ineligible although they may have lived all their lives in the country and they have only temporary accommodation in the town while they are waiting for a house to be built?
I told the Deputy that I was aware of the problem and that it is under consideration. It is one of a number of matters that are under consideration in connection with the Housing Act.
Can we take it that there is new housing legislation being introduced then?
Housing legislation is being prepared and this is one of the matters which is being actively considered.
23.
asked the Minister for Local Government if section 40 (1) (a) of the Housing Act, 1966, enables a housing authority to make a loan, and in particular an unsecured loan, before proposed works are carried out, where they are satisfied that if the proposed works are carried out the house will be fit for human habitation.
The answer is "Yes".