Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Apr 1996

Vol. 464 No. 3

Written Answers. - Shared Ownership Loans Scheme.

Seán Haughey

Question:

68 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment the concerns, if any, he has regarding delays in processing applications to Dublin Corporation and other local authorities for shared ownership loans which are resulting in estate agents being reluctant to deal with potential house buyers availing of this scheme, with the effect that buyers have difficulties in finding a suitable house to purchase; if so, the action, if any, he proposes to take to improve this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8053/96]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment (Ms McManus)

The administration of the shared ownership system, including the processing of applications, is the responsibility of local authorities. I understand that in a small number of cases some auctioneers had been reluctant to deal with intending purchasers under the scheme but the situation has now improved in this respect. My Department has impressed on authorities the necessity for prompt processing of applications under the scheme and will continue to keep the situation under review.