Information is not available in my Department in relation to the number of applications received by Kildare County Council for the improvement works in lieu of rehousing scheme as, in general, approval is not necessary from my Department for authorities to carry out proposed works under the scheme. My Department's approval for proposed works under this scheme is only required when the cost is estimated to exceed £50,000.
My Department has encouraged local authorities to avail of this scheme as much as possible and should local authorities require additional funding they have the flexibility to make adjustments within their overall housing capital allocations to cater for any increased demand for this schemes that might arise.