I propose to take Questions Nos. 115 and 116 together.
704 housing associations were approved by my Department under Section 6 of the Housing (scellaneous Provisions) Act, 1992 for the provision and management of housing. In 2012 my Department identified 86 Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) that neither produced housing stock nor applied for any funding from my Department. These companies were no longer registered with the Companies Registration Office and their approved status with my Department was rescinded. My Department is now proceeding to examine the status of more than 100 additional bodies that also appear to be inactive , and I expect to de-list further bodies in 2013 in order to present a more accurate picture of the size of the sector operating in Ireland.
My Department’s role in relation to the voluntary housing capital funding schemes relates primarily to the provision of funds to support the annual construction and housing acquisitions programmes by the sector. It is a matter for the relevant housing authority to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the schemes and to have appropriate oversight and liaison arrangements in place for the effective administration of the schemes and for ensuring that past investment in voluntary housing is safeguarded.
In this instance, I understand that Kildare County Council has been engaging closely with the Léim an Bhradáin housing association and has sought information on a range of issues around the management and operation of the housing scheme, including details of the most recent AGM, copies of last audited accounts and details with regard to current rent policy. The Council has undertaken to keep my Department informed of progress on these issues. My Department has not provided any funding towards the management and maintenance of the housing scheme in question.
