Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2014
1034. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has explored models of low-cost social housing construction used in other countries as possible models for use here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41613/14]
View answerThe Government’s objective is to provide quality social housing at best value for the State and in that context consideration is given to mechanisms and projects with that objective on an on-going basis. The forthcoming Social Housing Strategy will further enhance our approach to social housing provision in Ireland. The Strategy, which I expect to finalise in the coming weeks, will contain clear measurable actions to be taken to increase the supply of social housing on a national basis.
With regard to construction models, building regulations set down the minimum, legally enforceable standards that must be applied to the design and construction of buildings. The statutory requirements are set out in twelve parts (classified as parts A to M) included under the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations 1997-2014. Technical guidance documents (TGDs) are published to accompany each of the twelve parts in order to demonstrate how the statutory requirements may be achieved in practice. Where new or innovative methods of construction are being imported or adapted for use in Ireland it is necessary to demonstrate that method used is suitable for conditions in Ireland and is fully compliant with the requirements of the Building Regulations. This is normally achieved through certification by a competent body, such as the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) or an equivalent recognised certification body. The onus is on the owners, designers and builders of a particular building to demonstrate how compliance has been achieved.
I understand that sustainable modular housing options for both short-term and long-term housing are currently being considered by Dublin City Council. My Department is awaiting a report from the Council on this matter. In considering whether modular housing is an appropriate response for addressing housing need, the timeline for delivery as well as the costs involved will need to be assessed and benchmarked against traditional build programmes.
