The acquisition through public funding of properties for social housing use, by either approved housing bodies or by local authorities, must be on the basis that the houses are suitable for social housing use and suitable also across a range of other considerations including value for money, design, planning and other compliances. As the housing authority for its area, it is a matter in the first case for Kerry County Council to determine the suitability of any units for acquisition, including acquisition by approved housing bodies with public funding support.
I understand that Kerry County Council is aware of the houses concerned and my Department will consider any proposals if made by the local authority or by approved housing bodies in respect of the acquisition of these or other properties that may be suitable for social housing use in the local authority area.