Vol. 525 No. 2
686 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if, in view of the increase in the number of reported cases of marriage breakdown, there are any provisions within the shared ownership scheme for spouses or partners in such marriages to secure a shared ownership loan to purchase a dwelling; and, if not, if he will make provisions in this regard. [24468/00]
The administration of the shared ownership scheme is a matter for individual local authorities. Authorities must assess each application under the scheme on its merits, having regard, inter alia, to the applicant's eligibility and ability to meet the repayments and expenses arising from a shared ownership purchase. The marital situation or status of an applicant, who otherwise meets the criteria for the scheme, should have no advance bearing on the assessment procedure.
