Vol. 510 No. 2
122 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the guideline figures for rent allowances to which community welfare officers in the Dublin area work; and the flexibility, range and scope allowed to them. [22093/99]
The current rent levels for the Eastern Health Board, EHB, area were applied with effect from 1 January 1999 and are shown in the following tabular statement. The Eastern Health Board has recently reviewed its rent levels and proposes to increase the levels with effect from 1 January 2000.
The 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 regularly to take account of the actual fluctuations in accommodation costs observed in each area. The health board must also satisfy itself that accommodation is generally available within these limits.
When accommodation is no longer available within these limits, rent levels are reviewed and revised upwards by the health board.
If any tenant is experiencing difficulties, the health board has discretion to award a supplement based on an amount of rent which exceeds the maximum level set where there are extenuating medical or social circumstances having regard to the applicant's means and all the other requirements of the legislation.
Tabular Statement
Current Maximum Rent Levels in the Eastern Health Board
|
Family Size |
Maximum Level1 January 1999 |
|
Single Persons |
£60 per week |
|
Couples with no dependants |
£96 per week |
|
Couples and Lone Parents with one dependant |
£110 per week |
|
Couples and Lone Parents with two or more dependants |
£650 per month |
|
Single Persons and Couples in Shared Accommodation |
£48 per week |
|
Families in Shared Accommodation |
£650 per month |
