Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
1073. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the directive given to local authorities in relation to the regulations brought in; the way in which these will affect housing allocations during Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8034/20]
View answerLocal authorities, in managing their range of functions in the context of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, adhere closely to the direction, guidance and advice from the Department of Health and the National Public Health Emergency Team for COVID-19 (NPHET). My Department and the local government sector are working together to ensure that all local government services are delivered to the greatest extent possible, where it is safe to do so.
Under section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, allocation of dwellings is a housing authority function, which is undertaken in accordance with the housing authority's allocation scheme. The allocations function in local authorities has been operating throughout the period, with a particular focus on ensuring that urgent allocations are occurring, and the various aspects of the process that can occur remotely or safely in adherence with the HSE guidelines are continuing. As we move into a less restricted phase, local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies are working together to ensure that any delays that may have arisen due to the COVID-19 restrictions are addressed, in line with the Roadmap and public health advice.
