I propose to take Questions Nos. 2864 to 2867, inclusive, together.
The document 'Housing Options for Our Ageing Population' is a joint policy statement published by my Department and the Department of Health. The policy statement builds on policy for the housing of older people as outlined in Rebuilding Ireland and the National Planning Framework 2040.
The policy statement outlines six principles that have been derived primarily from, and are reinforced by, the various research findings outlined in the document and learnings and experience to date from the case studies set out therein, which are excellent examples of housing for older people. These principles are intended to inform strategic planning in developing housing options and supports for older people. The principles are as follows: Ageing in Place; Supporting Urban Renewal; Promoting Sustainable Lifetime Housing; Using Assistive Technology; Staying Socially Connected; and Working Together.
There are 40 actions set out in the policy statement, of which 22 are to be led by my Department, 13 by the Department of Health and 5 by both. Some of the actions are already being progressed.
Actions 4.3 and 4.5 of the Housing Options for Our Ageing Population Policy Statement, relating to development contributions and financial incentives, are both targeted for completion in 2020.
With regards to Action 5.8 of Rebuilding Ireland, this Action was incorporated into the Housing Options for our Ageing Population as Action 4.7 of the policy statement. It states that methods to incentivise older people in public and private housing to rightsize to appropriately sized units will be established. This action will be progressed in the manner referred to above with all of the other actions.
The statistics referred to on pages 8 and 23 of the policy statement are published in a 2016 report Housing For Older People-Thinking Ahead, compiled by the Housing Agency, ISAX and Amárach Research. The figure of 100,000 on page 23 of the policy statement refers to the current potential market for purpose designed homes for older people. The figure of 300,000 (150,000 right sizing units within existing communities and 150,000 age friendly units in purpose built developments) on page 8 of the policy statement is based on CSO projections and estimates the housing needs of older people out to 2031.
