Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 20 Nov 2003

Vol. 575 No. 1

Written Answers. - Social and Affordable Housing Programmes.

Richard Bruton

Question:

220 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government if he has made provision in the 2004 Estimates for an increase in the income threshold, in the terms of income related subsidy, in the deposit required, in the minimum purchase percentage, in the maximum loan extended, in the maximum house price, in the interest charge or in the charge for mortgage insurance cover in respect of the affordable housing or the shared ownership schemes; and the terms of each of these items which will prevail in 2004. [27950/03]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

The total housing provision, Exchequer and non-Exchequer, in 2004 of €1.885 billion is up almost 5.5% on this year's provision. The 2004 level of public investment in housing is significant and will ensure that we will continue to deliver accommodation under the social and affordable housing schemes to over 12,000 households on average over the period 2002-04, compared to almost 8,500 in 1998.

The administration of the affordable housing and shared ownership schemes is a matter for each local authority having regard, as appropriate, to the housing needs and circumstances of their area. The terms of these schemes, including income limits, are kept under continuing review by my Department so as to ensure that we are making the best use of the available resources to meet housing needs in a sustainable manner.