Jimmy Deenihan
Question:267 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will introduce an essential repairs grant scheme for houses in urban areas, particularly for people on social welfare pensions. [26346/98]
Written Answers. - Housing Grants.
Michael Ring
Question:270 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will increase the essential repairs grant from £1,800 to £2,500. [26433/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 267 and 270 together.
I have recently notified local authorities of significant improvements to the terms of the essential repairs grant scheme to apply where works commence on or after 2 December 1998. Local authorities may now pay, for example, a grant of £4,500 with a recoupment of £3,000 from my Department. It is open to local authorities to set a higher level of grant in appropriate circumstances subject to not exceeding the approved cost of the works. Essential repairs grants may now be paid in respect of houses located in urban, as well as rural, areas.