Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 January 2018
1704. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if the net income limits can be changed in the social housing assessment regulations to take into account the housing shortages across the country and the fact that many persons are now commuting longer distances for work (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54344/17]
View answer1728. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government his plans to revise the thresholds for inclusion on the social housing list as a matter of urgency in view of the fact that current thresholds are unrealistic (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54755/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1704 and 1728 together.
The Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011 prescribe maximum net income limits for each housing authority, in different bands according to the area, with income being defined and assessed according to a standard Household Means Policy.
The income bands and the authority area assigned to each band are based on an assessment of the income needed to provide for a household's basic needs, plus a comparative analysis of the local rental cost of housing accommodation across the country. The limits also reflect a blanket increase of €5,000 introduced prior to the new system coming into operation, in order to broaden the base from which social housing tenants are drawn and thereby promote sustainable communities.
As part of the broader social housing reform agenda, a review of the income eligibility limits for social housing supports has commenced. I would expect the results of this review to be available for publication later this year.
