Local Authority Housing.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2004

Wednesday, 17 November 2004

Questions (624)

Arthur Morgan

Question:

668 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is his policy to permit the transfer of State assets such as local authority housing stock, as recently proposed by Dublin City Council, out of public ownership to alternative landlords; if such a policy is being driven by Dublin City Council alone; if it is with his consent; if discussions on this issue have already taken place between his Department and Dublin City Council officials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29071/04]

Written answers

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

The Government is committed to the continued expansion of the social rented housing stock by both local authorities and voluntary housing bodies.

It is understood that a discussion report on a possible transfer of ownership of Dublin City Council rented housing stock was submitted to the council's housing, social and community strategic policy committee in November 2003. No proposals have been received in my Department seeking such an approval for a transfer of ownership of rented houses and no discussions have been held between the Department and the city council on the matter.