Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2016
241. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if he has considered an outreach programme in an attempt to identify hidden homeless persons here who may require support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29873/16]
View answerHouseholds, including individuals that meet the eligibility criteria and have a housing need, may apply to their local authority for social housing support. In assessing any application, the local authority will consider such factors as present accommodation, the condition of that accommodation, etc. Following assessment qualified households are placed on the housing waiting list. The oversight and management of housing waiting lists and the allocation of that support are a matter for the relevant housing authority in accordance with the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and associated regulations.
The 2016 Summary of Social Housing Assessments, which I expect will be finalised by the end of this year, will provide up to date information on the number of households which are qualified for social housing support in a range of categories, including those in overcrowded or unfit accommodation.
Where supports other than accommodation are required, households may engage with the Department of Social Protection’s Community Welfare Service which administers a range of supplementary welfare allowances.
