asked the Minister for Local Government if, in view of the abnormal increases in building materials particularly timber and steel, he will increase substantially the new house grants and reconstruction grants to enable employment in the industry to be kept at its present high level and, if possible, to be increased.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - House Grants.
24.
New house grants were revised under the Housing Act, 1970. and a further revision is not immediately contemplated. A comprehensive review of improvement grants is being undertaken and when this is completed I will consider what changes, if any. are desirable.
Would the Minister give any indication as to when he will come to a decision in this matter?
No.
It is of vital importance.
I have said that a comprehensive review is being undertaken and, until I get a recommendation on that, I will not be in a position to give any decision; and I do not know when that recommendation will come.
Could the Minister not put a date on it?
Did the Minister say that only the reconstruction grants are being reviewed? Are the new grants being reviewed as well?
New house grants were revised under the 1970 Act and a further revision at this point in time is not contemplated.
There is no thought then being given to increasing the new house grants.
No more than four months ago, no.
Am I to take it there will be no increase in house grants?
Not in new house grants, not at present.