asked the Minister for Local Government the present maximum housing reconstruction grant; and if he will consider raising this grant in the near future, in view of the sharp increase in building costs in recent times.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing Reconstruction Grants.
57.
The present maximum housing reconstruction grant under the Housing Acts, 1966 to 1970 is £140. In addition, local authorities may pay a supplementary grant of the same amount, provided the overall assistance from State and local authorities does not exceed two-thirds of the estimated cost of the reconstruction. Where an applicant is also installing water and sewerage facilities he can receive further assistance of up to £75 from the State and the same amount from the local authority.
The total of these grants compares favourably with the grants payable for new houses and I have no immediate intention of proposing an increase.