Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 March 2021
320. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if there are plans to change or adapt the housing aid and housing adaption grants given the problems securing quotes at this time; if the limits on these grants are under review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11068/21]
View answerMy Department provides funding to local authorities under the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability, to assist people in private houses to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs. The detailed administration of the grants including their assessment, approval and prioritisation, is the responsibility of the local authorities.
The receipt and processing of housing grant applications can and has continued throughout the pandemic, albeit at a slower pace. Works under the housing adaptation grants can continue to be undertaken during the Level 5 restrictions in construction where the homeowner is agreeable. Should an applicant have difficulty finding a contractor to quote for or undertake works, the majority of local authorities can provide applicants with a list of local building contractors who are active on housing grant type works in the area.
Officials from my Department are currently reviewing the maximum grant limits and I expect this work to be completed in the coming months. It would be premature to make any changes to the grant schemes pending completion of this review.
