Vol. 513 No. 1
534 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the number of local authorities which have applied for funding to support pilot projects in housing estate management initiatives since 1995; the total spending on these projects in each of the years from 1995 to 1999; the projected expenditure for similar initiatives over the lifetime of the National Development Plan 2000-2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1423/00]
The housing management initiative was established in 1995 to support pilot projects in the area of local authority housing management. Under the initiative, grant assistance is limited to 50% of actual expenditure on any project subject to a grant limit of £20,000. A higher limit may however be applied in exceptional cases.
Although funding for housing management initiatives is not specifically provided for in the national development plan the continuation of Government support for the initiative will be considered in the context of the normal Estimates procedures. The information sought in relation to the years 1995 to 2000 is set out in the following table:
|
Year |
Allocation£ |
No. of local authorities that made applications |
Outturn£ |
|
1995 |
100,000 |
34 |
55,895 |
|
1996 |
100,000 |
34 |
99,351 |
|
1997 |
200,000 |
26 |
171,684 |
|
1998 |
200,000 |
37 |
182,731 |
|
1999 |
200,000 |
35 |
179,873 |
|
2000* |
200,000 |
— |
— |
537 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if a revised refurbishment plan has been received from Westmeath County Council concerning improvement works for Ennell Court, Mullingar; if so, the date these proposals were received; the estimated cost of this project; when these proposals will be considered; and when funding will be made available. [1516/00]
An application for funding under the remedial works scheme was received from the council on 20 November 1997 in respect of this estate. The proposed works included the refurbishment of the houses, rewiring, the replacement of windows and doors, the provision of central heating, together with environmental works to the estate. The cost was estimated to be in the order of £500,000 at 1997 prices. Following discussions between the council and technical officers of my Department, the council undertook to review its proposals for the estate. I understand that the council has appointed consultants and agreed a brief to develop revised proposals. A decision on funding will be made as soon as possible following on receipt of the council's revised proposals in my Department.
