Social and Affordable Housing Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2015

Tuesday, 16 June 2015

Questions (749)

Gabrielle McFadden

Question:

749. Deputy Gabrielle McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider grant assistance for proprietors of vacant units, to allow such units to be converted and refurbished into suitable apartment accommodation for single persons, who are on housing waiting lists, thereby taking persons off these lists, and also helping to revitalise towns and villages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23207/15]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

While I have no plans to introduce direct grant assistance for proprietors of vacant units as proposed by the Deputy, my Department does provide funding support to housing authorities for the construction and acquisition of houses and apartments. As the housing authorities for their areas, local authorities are responsible for the detailed planning of social housing provision based on the local needs of their areas. It is open to local authorities to acquire properties that meet their needs and that represent good value for money, whether these are fully completed housing units or units that may require adaptation.