Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 13 Feb 1990

Vol. 395 No. 6

Written Answers. - Offshore Island Residents.

Enda Kenny

Question:

169 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the vast majority of offshore island residents are unable to employ registered building contractors in the building of new houses; that the cost of such houses is greatly increased due to transport charges and this category of persons are unable to qualify for new house grants as a result; if he will make special arrangements to meet their needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment (Mr. Connolly)

In recognition of the higher building costs involved, a higher rate of grant is available for a new house on certain islands — £3,600 compared with £2,000 elsewhere. I do not propose any change in the existing requirements about the use of VAT registered contractors in the construction of houses for which a new house grant is sought.