Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 27 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 5

Written Answers. - Local Authority Housing.

John McGuinness

Question:

116 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government when work will commence on Ossory Park, Kilkenny, in view of his recent announcement regarding the refurbishment works; the work that will be carried out on each house; the cost involved; if special grant assistance will be made available to those who own their own homes in the scheme in view of the age profile of each resident and the fact that most are retired and receiving the old age pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14176/99]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

Kilkenny Corporation's proposals for the refurbishment of dwellings at this estate were approved in principle under my Department's remedial works scheme in December 1998. The planning and carrying out of the works – estimated cost £1.55 million – which involves the general refurbishment of the dwellings together with the provision of bathroom facilities where necessary, is a matter for the local authority. The proposals include certain works to purchased houses and the approval is subject to the normal requirement of the scheme that 50 per cent funding is the maximum which may be provided by my Department towards the cost of eligible works to such houses.