Social and Affordable Housing

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2020

Tuesday, 7 July 2020

Questions (326, 327)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

326. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if he will discuss with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and the Department of Education and Skills, the land which could be made available to the local authority on the eastern side of the county from the Department that would be suitable for housing when the Department takes over Georges Place for the planned Dún Laoghaire Educate Together permanent school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14552/20]

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

327. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if he will ensure the ring-fencing of money for capital expenditure on housing in the event of the land at George’s Place in Dún Laoghaire being sold to the Department of Education and Skills; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14553/20]

Written answers

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government

I propose to take Questions Nos. 326 and 327 together.

The delivery of social and affordable homes in Dublin, and other major urban areas, where people face the greatest access and affordability challenge is a top priority for this government. To this end, my Department works closely with all Dublin local authorities including Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council.

As housing authorities, it is important that each local authority assesses the suitability of any lands that may be available for its housing development programme to meet local needs and seeks to progress such proposals. For my part, my Department and its Agencies will support local authorities.

Funding is available to deliver additional social and affordable housing stock from my Department through a range of initiatives. My Department will consider applications for capital expenditure funding for housing under its range of programmes.

Question No. 328 answered with Question No. 268.