Vol. 524 No. 2
327 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the reason local authorities will not permit the shared ownership scheme to be used for the purchase of apartments; the plans he has to change this in view of the grave shortage of housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22059/00]
The administration of the shared ownership scheme, subject to the conditions laid down by my Department, is a matter for each individual housing authority. The scheme, as currently provided for by my Department, does not preclude the purchase of apartments and I am aware that some authorities currently provide for the purchase of apartments under their shared ownership scheme. I believe that, given our demographic and other social changes, all authorities should include the option of acquiring apartments under the scheme and my Department will be writing to authorities in this regard.
