Vol. 573 No. 3
678 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government if decisions have been made in regard to the review of the disabled person's housing grant; his views on whether this grant is the most essential tool for people with disabilities to make their home environment suitable to their needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25222/03]
The review of the disabled person's grant scheme is being finalised in my Department. On completion of the review, I will determine the changes, if any, required to the regulations governing the scheme.
The disabled person's grant scheme is an important measure that facilitates disabled persons, who could not otherwise afford to do so, to adapt their dwelling to meet their specific housing needs and to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. The significant improvements which have been made in recent years to the level of both grant and recoupment available has resulted in a substantial increase in demand for assistance under the scheme. The maximum grant has doubled from €10,158 in 1997 to €20,320 currently. The grant now covers 90% of the approved cost of the works compared to two-thirds in 1997. The recoupment rate from the Department to local authorities in respect of grants paid has also increased, from 50% to two thirds. Expenditure on the scheme has increased from €13 million for 2,455 grants in 1998 to €52.6 million for 5,932 grants in 2002. In line with this significant increase in the Department's capital provision for the scheme, recoupment costs have also increased from €6.3 million for 2,512 grants in 1998 to almost €31.5 million for 5,070 grants in 2002.
These significant increases in funding provided are a clear indication of the Government's commitment to the disabled persons grant scheme.
