Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 April 2018
1469. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the estimated full-year cost of increasing rent supplement limits by 10% on average; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16476/18]
View answerRent supplement plays a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme supporting approximately 31,720 recipients for which the Government has provided €180 million for in 2018.
Taking into account the contribution of the customer to their housing costs under the scheme, increasing rent limits by 10% would result in a full year cost of approximately €24 million for rent supplement.
In recognition of the on-going rental market difficulties, my Department continues to implement a targeted case-by-case policy approach that allows for flexibility where landlords seek rents in excess of the rent limits.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
