Vol. 487 No. 3
232 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the guidelines, if any, used for deciding the maximum rental charge in respect of which supplementary welfare allowances would be paid and for deciding the maximum supplement in the Dublin area; and if he has satisfied himself that rental accommodation is generally available within these guidelines in Dublin. [3786/98]
Each health board is required to set reasonable maximum rent levels for various household types as a basis for calculating the maximum amount of rent supplement payable in each area under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. The limits are set by the health board using local knowledge as to what constitutes a reasonable rent for private rented accommodation for various household types within and across the health board area.
These maximum rent levels are reviewed to take account of the actual fluctuations in accommodation costs observed in each area. Health boards must also satisfy themselves that accommodation is generally available within these limits.
In addition, health boards must be satisfied that the rent payable by the applicant is just and proper having regard to the nature, character and location of the residence and is reasonable having regard to the applicant's residential needs.
