Local Authority Housing Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2019

Tuesday, 9 April 2019

Questions (613)

Fiona O'Loughlin

Question:

613. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government when his attention was drawn to the fact that Kildare County Council was planning to purchase a location (details supplied) as a turnkey project for 100% social housing; if the planned purchase meets all of the regulatory requirements of the social housing investment programme; his views on whether the provision of additional social housing in an area in which there is already a higher than average concentration complies with best practice guidelines under Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16092/19]

Written answers

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy)

The advancement of social housing delivery on a local basis is the responsibility of each individual local authority. My Department works with the local authorities in terms of setting and monitoring targets for social housing delivery and the funding approval for individual projects.  In the latter context, Kildare County Council identified the opportunity for delivery of newly constructed social homes through a turnkey project at the location in question and funding approval was issued by my Department in February.

In the context of their advancement of social housing delivery in Kildare, it is a matter for the County Council to assess the local housing need, identify best approaches and opportunities to meet this need and the appropriate level of social housing in any area.  Local authorities are guided by the 'Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities' publication, in terms of their housing responsibilities, but the knowledge and awareness of the local authority with regard to local circumstances and housing need, means they are best placed to judge the best approach to meeting that housing need within the context of developing sustainable communities.  I understand that Kildare County Council has satisfied itself in relation to these matters.