Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 1

Written Answers. - Local Authority Housing.

Bernard Allen

Question:

269 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans, if any, he has to open discussions with Bord Gais with a view to undertaking a joint programme to install gas fire central heating in all local authority houses; to request that Bord Gais make a gas supply available for such a purpose at minimum rates in view of the proposals of the housing options document which states that it is intended to bring all dwellings up to a reasonable standard; and if a survey stock will be carried out and the installation of central heating considered in this regard. [15163/00]

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

Since February 1994, local authorities have been advised that full central heating should be provided in all new local authority housing as part of the overall cost of the schemes. While the management, maintenance and improvement of their existing dwellings, including the installation of central heating, is the responsibility of local authorities to be defrayed from their own resources, capital funding may be provided under the remedial works scheme to assist authorities to carry out major structural works to designated estates. The installation of central heating in houses may form part of the works undertaken in this context.

The choice of heating system and fuel is a mat ter for determination by the local authority,inter alia, by reference to expected capital and running costs, including possible servicing and maintenance costs, and the preference of the likely occupants. Accordingly, I have no plans to have discussions with Bord Gais on this issue.

The carrying out of a survey of their housing stock is a matter for individual local authorities as part of their housing management and maintenance responsibilities. The next national housing condition survey is due to take place in 2001 and will encompass all housing stock, both private and social.