Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 1 Mar 2000

Vol. 515 No. 4

Written Answers. - Social Welfare Payments.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

42 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs his views on the transfer of the administration of housing benefit to local authorities; the consultations, if any, he has had with local authorities in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6104/00]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The Deputy will be aware the Government has decided in principle to implement the main recommendations of the report published in August 1999 on this matter.

It is not intended to transfer the present rent supplement scheme to the local authorities. Instead, a new rent assistance scheme will be put in place, operated by the local authorities, to serve people who have long-term housing needs, including those who currently rely on SWA rent supplements on a long-term basis. Income support elements of the SWA scheme, including assistance with rent costs on a short-term basis, will continue to be met through the social welfare system.

A planning group under the aegis of the Department of the Environment and Local Government will shortly be established to consult with relevant stakeholders including the local authorities and to prepare detailed proposals for the new scheme.

It is expected that this will take about six months and a further two year timeframe is envisaged for introducing the new arrangements once the detailed proposals have been agreed. This will deliver an important element of the Government's Action Programme for the Millennium, which commits the Government to the maximum co-ordination of housing policy under one Department.