Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 May 2016
295. Deputy Declan Breathnach asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will reintroduce the housing repair for the elderly scheme in local authorities to enable a 50:50 scheme whereby elderly persons in need of urgent works to their homes can, through a combination of contribution and skill set, prolong their stay in their own homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8968/16]
View answerThe current scheme of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability was introduced in 2007 and has encompassed the schemes for Essential Repairs Grants, Disabled Persons Grants, and the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly Scheme. The current Housing Adaptation Grants provide a strong level of funding to support older people for the continued independent occupancy of their own homes. For 2016, there is a total funding availability of €56.25 million, which is an increase of some 10% over the previous year and will see over 8,000 homes receiving grant aid this year.
