asked the Minister for the Environment the reason his Department is continuing to send out modified application forms for house improvement grants to applicants under the old scheme in cases where the work has already been completed and inspections have already been carried out in order to confirm the position in view of the fact that this practice is confusing many applicants and leading them to believe that they are eligible for the increased grants.
Written Answers. - House Improvement Grants.
69.
Mr. Coughlan
Following announcement of the revised house improvement grants scheme, persons who had applied for grants under the previous scheme were advised individually of the circumstances in which they could opt to have the particular works proposed by them carried out under the new scheme of improvement grants. The position was clearly outlined in the letter issued to applicants and this has been reflected in the response so far.
Given the expanded scope of the new scheme and the extent of the grants available, I am satisfied that it was in the interest of the persons involved that they should have the opportunity to avail themselves of the revised scheme, provided the work involved was not started before 1 December, and the house involved was inspected on or after that date.