asked the Minister for the Environment if the Government propose to renew the Housing Act, 1969; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing Act Renewal.
14.
The Housing Act, 1969, was continued in force for two years ending on 31 December 1981, with the approval of both Houses of the Oireachtas. In November 1979 local authorities were asked by my Department to conduct an analysis of the cases they had dealt with under the Act and based on their findings to furnish their views on the effectiveness of the Act and on the case for retention of the existing controls or for the imposition of alternative controls. Replies are still awaited from a number of authorities. A decision on whether or not to propose continuance of the Act will be taken when all the replies have been considered.
Again, could the Minister give some time in regard to this? The renewal of the Act is for a two-year period and that is rapidly disappearing. In view of the commitment of the Government to replace the 1969 Housing Act with new legislation could the Minister say (a) if the heads of an alternative Bill have been drafted and (b) if they have been circulated?
No, not yet. As I said, I am awaiting replies. I have received replies from 60 per cent of the county councils. The two main areas, Dublin and Cork Corporations, have not yet replied. It would be folly to prepare legislation pending that. Practically all the authorities that have furnished comments so far favour control in some form. The Deputy may assume that whether in its present form or in amending legislation that there will be some form of control.
When was his Department last in contact with either Dublin or Cork, the two major authorities directly affected by this matter?
I have not the exact date but the Deputy may assume that they are in constant contact with these authorities because it is a matter of urgency at this stage.