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Wednesday, 5 May 2021

Written Answers Nos. 42-64

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (42)

Peter Fitzpatrick

Question:

42. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the cost to date of all Covid-19-related payments in his Department to individuals and corporate entities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15409/21]

View answer

Written answers

As the Deputy will be aware, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic required a whole of Government approach that was flexible, adaptive and responsive to the changing situation.

My Department responded to the COVID-19 pandemic using a range of targeted mechanisms. Funding was distributed through a number of stakeholders, primarily the 31 local authorities. The most significant cost was in relation to a Commercial Rates Waiver of €900m for eligible businesses for March to December.

Additional funding was also provided as part of the Government’s July Jobs Stimulus to help reignite the economy following the impact of COVID-19. This included:

- €43m for Irish Water Leakage Reduction Programme and capital maintenance works - this was enhanced with a further €44m announced during Budget 2021;

- €40m for refurbishing vacant social housing units and returning them to productive use; and

- €8.5m for investment in the Heritage area, including to upgrade and enhance recreational and visitor facilities at National Parks, Heritage Sites and Nature Reserves.

Additional funding of €60m for homelessness services was also provided in 2020, including €29m recouped to housing authorities towards expenditure on COVID-19 measures. This funding allowed for additional accommodation to be put in place to ensure the necessary social distancing in emergency accommodation and the provision of accommodation to allow for the self-isolation of individuals, as required.

My Department also provided of €2.6m to the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management and €1.6m to the zoo sector, as well as €216,000 on health and safety measures at Departmental offices and National Parks.

Mayoral Election

Questions (43)

Kieran O'Donnell

Question:

43. Deputy Kieran O'Donnell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the process to establish a mayor for Limerick city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22876/21]

View answer

Written answers

At its meeting of 20 April 2021, the Government approved the General Scheme of a Bill providing for a Directly Elected Mayor for Limerick, which is now published on the Department's website. On foot of this Government approval, I am keen to advance this legislation as quickly as possible and have now requested the Chairperson of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage to consider pre-legislative scrutiny at the Committee's earliest convenience.

It should be noted that the General Scheme provides for the establishment of the Office of Directly Elected Mayor with executive functions and for the transfer of existing executive functions to that office. In addition to existing functions, new areas of responsibility are also provided for in the General Scheme, including provisions requiring the Mayor to lead a local board to advance the implementation of Project Ireland 2040 in the Limerick city region and convene a rural board to examine all aspects of rural life in Limerick.

I can confirm to the Deputy that officials at my Department continue to engage intensively with our legal advisors on this very important piece of legislation and are very focussed on progressing the legislation, as quickly as possible. It is intended that the election will be held as soon as is practicable following the completion of the legislative process, guided of course by the public health advice in place at the time.

Question No. 44 answered with Question No. 37.

Planning Issues

Questions (45, 104)

Eoin Ó Broin

Question:

45. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a commitment will be made not to extend the strategic housing development planning process and to allow for a return to a two stage planning process with the local authorities as the primary planning authority and An Bord Pleanála providing for an appropriate appeals mechanism. [22937/21]

View answer

Francis Noel Duffy

Question:

104. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the new arrangements being considered by his Department to replace the strategic housing development scheme; and the elements of the scheme that will remain given their lower commencement rate compared to the existing local authority planning process. [22484/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 45 and 104 together.

The Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016 (the Act) introduced new streamlined arrangements to enable planning applications for strategic housing developments (SHDs) of 100 housing units or more, or student accommodation or shared accommodation developments of 200 bed spaces or more, to be made directly to An Bord Pleanála for determination.

The Programme for Government - Our Shared Future commits to not extending the SHD arrangements beyond their legislative expiry date of end December 2021, which has now been extended to 25 February 2022 arising from the Covid-related extension of duration of statutory deadlines within the planning system by 8 weeks in respect of the period March to May 2020.

Work is ongoing on the development of new legislative proposals for the wind-up of the current SHD arrangements and the submission of large-scale housing planning applications (including student accommodation) to local planning authorities. It is intended to publish a General Scheme in this regard as soon as possible.

Planning Issues

Questions (46)

Thomas Pringle

Question:

46. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the planning regulations or statutory instruments that could be used to advise local authorities to include conservation plans for sites of potential historical importance in their county development plans such as sites on and around former mother and baby homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22011/21]

View answer

Written answers

I refer to my recent letter to the Deputy in this matter which issued further to a query he raised with An Taoiseach in this House regarding the protection of potential burial sites associated with mother and baby homes in the context of county development plans. It had been requested that local authorities ensure that such possible burial sites are identified and taken into account in the context of future developments.

As my letter of 27th April sets out, the preparation of statutory development plans is a central function of each planning authority and must be undertaken in accordance with the provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. In that context, where there is any evidence of such burial sites, I am satisfied that there are provisions in the 2000 Act which enable local authorities in their role as planning authority, to take a precautionary approach in addressing this matter and to properly safeguard any such sites from potentially harmful development.

Currently, almost every local authority has commenced, or is scheduled to shortly commence, the statutory review of their development plan in accordance with Section 11 of the Act. This process affords the opportunity for the identification of burial grounds and their subsequent protection from future development through appropriate policy and objectives in the county or city development plan, and which importantly includes several opportunities for public participation and consultation.

I believe the development plan process therefore provides an appropriate opportunity for important local knowledge to be applied to assist in the identification and subsequent protection of such burial grounds.

Inshore Fisheries

Questions (47, 62)

Holly Cairns

Question:

47. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the supports put in place for inshore fishers whose livelihood are impacted by the different stages of the preparation and construction of offshore renewable energy projects. [23006/21]

View answer

Holly Cairns

Question:

62. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a response will be provided to the request by organisations (details supplied) for formal guidelines and structures to enable developers to interact with inshore fishers concerning offshore renewable energy projects, including an independent arbitrator to resolve potential conflicts. [23005/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 62 together.

I note the concerns outlined by NIFA and NIFO, particularly in relation to the potential impacts on their livelihood as a result of Off Shore Renewable (ORE) developments. Specifically, I am acutely aware of the issue of diverse levels and standards of communications between the fisheries and ORE industries, having first been raised by members of the fisheries community at a National Marine Planning Framework (NMPF) public consultation meeting in Arklow held on 10 February 2020, which was one of a number of NMPF public consultation events held by the Department during 2019 and early 2020.

To directly address these concerns, and also with the wider aim of promoting constructive engagement and consultation between the fisheries community and the ORE industry, I have instructed my Department officials to commence the formation of a Seafood/ORE working group, with the initial aim of agreeing a communications protocol between these two strategically important Marine sectors.

During the last 6 months of 2020, and including the early months of this year, constructive discussions and consultations on the draft terms of reference have been held between my Department, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and other relevant public sector bodies, and are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks. Advice on International best practice has also been sought from, and consulted on, with neighbouring Maritime jurisdictions with experience in Fisheries/ORE Industry liaison.

Unfortunately, the commencement of this group has been delayed due to a number of factors, including Covid-related restrictions and the prioritisation of the finalisation process of the NMPF, and the Maritime Area Planning Bill, but my Department intends to commence the Seafood/ORE working group before the end of Q2 2021. Representatives of NIFA and NIFO will be invited to participate in the working group, and I look forward to their constructive input.

It is the intention that the proposed Seafood/ORE group will, in time, address issues such as dislocation, co-existence, the impact of developments (including exploration of development sites) and the formalising of a consultation/engagement process.

My Department has not yet formulated a definitive position with regard to the issue of the appointment of an independent arbitrator, as suggested by NIFA and NIFO, but is giving further consideration to the points raised in those public submissions as the NMPF moves toward the Implementation stages. My Department will also be informed by the reports and suggested outcomes of the Seafood/ORE working group. I do not wish to pre-empt the outcomes of any working group discussions on this point, and so there are no plans in place to appoint an arbitrator. Given their functional remit over fisheries and offshore renewables policy respectively, I will also consult with my colleagues the Ministers for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Environment, Climate and Communications, should the need arise.

Notwithstanding the inception of the aforementioned group, and any formal consultation or engagement guidelines that may be subsequently developed by that group, my Department has worked across Government and with marine stakeholders to ensure the interests and rights of the fisheries community are clearly stated and represented in the Fisheries policy approach of the draft NMPF, in a way that complements other areas of fisheries management. Fisheries Policy 1 states that;

‘’Proposals that may have significant adverse impacts on access for existing fishing activities, must demonstrate that they will, in order of preference: a) avoid, b) minimise, or c) mitigate such impacts.

If it is not possible to mitigate significant adverse impacts on fishing activity, the public benefits for proceeding with the proposal that outweigh the significant adverse impacts on existing activities must be demonstrated.’’

While Fisheries Policy 5 states;

’Where significant impact upon fishing activity is identified, a Fisheries Management and Mitigation Strategy should be prepared by the proposer of development or use, in consultation with local fishing interests (and other interests as appropriate) in the development of the Strategy. All efforts should be made to agree the Strategy with those interests. Those interests should also undertake to engage with the proposer and provide best available, transparent and accurate information and data in a timely manner to help complete the Strategy. The Strategy should be drawn up as part of the discharge of conditions of permissions granted.

The content of the Strategy should be relevant to the particular circumstances and could include:

- An assessment of the potential impact of the development or use on the affected fishery or fisheries, both in socio-economic terms and in terms of environmental sustainability. This assessment should include consideration of any impact upon cultural identity within fishing communities.

- A recognition that the disruption to existing fishing opportunities/activity should be minimised as far as possible. Demonstration of the public benefit(s) that outweigh the significant impacts identified.

- Reasonable measures to mitigate any constraints which the proposed development or use may place on existing or proposed fishing activity.

- Reasonable measures to mitigate any potential impacts on sustainability of fish stocks (e.g. impacts on spawning grounds or areas of fish or shellfish abundance) and any socio-economic impacts.

Where it does not prove possible to agree the Strategy with all interests:

- divergent views and the reasons for any divergence of views between the parties should be fully explained in the Strategy and dissenting views should be given a platform within the Strategy to make their case.

- where divergent views are identified, relevant public authorities should be engaged to identify informal and formal steps designed to enable proposal(s) to progress.’’

Fisheries groups were represented on the Marine Spatial Planning Advisory group, which played an important role in informing the development of the Plan. These policies are due to come in to effect on the adoption of the NMPF in Q2 2021, and clearly indicate that developers cannot proceed with operations without due consideration for the impact of their activities on other marine users, with particular regard to the Fisheries community. The way in which Fisheries Policy 5 will be implemented will be a subject for consideration at the Seafood/ORE working group.

Planning Issues

Questions (48)

Neale Richmond

Question:

48. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider extending the duration of planning permissions due to expire in straightforward cases which do not require an environmental impact assessment due to the delays which have been caused by the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22617/21]

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Written answers

Under section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, the holder of a planning permission may apply to the planning authority for an extension to the period of permission, prior to the expiration of that permission. On application, the authority shall extend the appropriate period by such additional period not exceeding 5 years as the authority considers requisite to enable the development to which the permission relates to be completed, provided that, the development was commenced before the expiration of the permission, substantial works were carried out and the development will be completed within a reasonable time.

If an extension to planning permission has been previously granted, the only circumstance in which the holder of a planning permission may be granted a second extension of duration is under section 42(1A) of the Act in respect of a development that relates to 20 or more houses subject to the development being completed within 5 years of the originally extended permission or by 31 December 2021 (as extended by Government Orders under Section 251A of the Planning and Development Act 2000 in 2020), whichever first occurs.

On 30 March 2021, the Government published its latest response to managing Covid-19 - Resilience and Recovery 2021: The Path Ahead. In this context, on 10 April 2021 the Minister for Health signed the Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) Regulations 2021 enabling the recommencement of residential construction projects as part of the phased easing of the Covid-19 Level 5 restrictions, effective from 12 April 2021.

My Department is presently engaging with the Office of the Attorney General with respect to the potential to bring forward additional temporary legislative amendments to provide for a further extension of duration of previously extended permissions, having regard to the construction delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. On advice, these amendments may only benefit extension of duration proposals that screen out for environmental impact assessment or appropriate assessment, and my Department is preparing to bring a legislative scheme to Government in the coming weeks, on this basis.

Commercial Rates

Questions (49, 89)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

49. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the current rates waiver will be extended; and the measures being taken by his Department to ensure any extension will not have an impact on the budget for Fingal County Council. [22878/21]

View answer

Alan Farrell

Question:

89. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the operation of commercial rates waivers for local businesses as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic; if the waiver will be extended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22880/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 89 together.

Given the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 and the associated public health restrictions, and in order to continue supporting ratepayers and local authorities, the Government introduced a commercial rates waiver for the first half of 2021. This waiver applies to businesses most seriously affected by ongoing restrictions.

The 2021 commercial rates waiver is necessarily more targeted than was the case with the nine month waiver in 2020. Automatic eligibility is extended to retail, hospitality including hotels, pubs and restaurants, leisure and entertainment, personal services such as hairdressers and barbers, health services and various other categories. In recognition of the fact that there may be ratepayers excluded from the waiver that were severely impacted by the pandemic, it includes a provision that ratepayers not automatically eligible may engage directly with their local authorities, to demonstrate serious financial impact. In such circumstances ratepayers that are not automatically eligible, may also qualify. These applications are being reviewed by local authorities on a case by case basis.

The processing of the 2020 commercial rates waiver has been completed. My Department recouped a total of €729m to local authorities in respect of rates waived in 2020. The administration by local authorities of the 2021 waiver for the first half of this year is ongoing.

As with all public health measures and associated supports, the waiver of commercial rates will be kept under review. As has been the case since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department will continue to engage with the local government sector and with individual local authorities on the financial impacts of the pandemic.

Housing Provision

Questions (50)

Richard Bruton

Question:

50. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he has reviewed the effectiveness of the public procurement process for the delivery of housing projects in terms of duration and best economic value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22674/21]

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Written answers

Social housing construction projects, as with all publicly funded construction projects, must be competitively tendered, in accordance with the public procurement guidelines, to ensure transparency as well as value for money for the taxpayer. The Office of Government Procurement under the aegis of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform is responsible for implementing national policy on public procurement.

The Capital Works Management Framework (CWMF) is a structure that has been developed to deliver Government objectives in relation to public sector construction procurement reform and consists of a suite of best practice guidance, standard contracts and generic template documents. The CWMF is for use by contracting authorities involved in the expenditure of public funds on construction projects and related consultancy services.

With regard my Department’s approval processes, all social housing projects must be submitted by local authorities to my Department for assessment and approval. This is to ensure that projects are carefully evaluated to ensure consistency with policy, deliver the required quality and provide value for money for the tax-payer, in line with the CWMF.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Questions (51)

Cathal Crowe

Question:

51. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he is examining the possibility of introducing a pilot scheme for the provision of sewerage facilities in small villages. [23016/21]

View answer

Written answers

My Department builds its strategic water policy and infrastructure delivery programmes around the National Planning Framework 2018-2040 and the National Development Plan 2018-2027.

Investment is primarily delivered through Irish Water while my Department operates the Rural Water Programme directly. The Programme for Government supports the uptake of Irish Water's Small Towns and Villages Growth Programme 2020-2024, which will provide water and wastewater growth capacity in smaller settlements that would otherwise not be provided for in Irish Water's capital investment plan.

Complementary to Irish Water’s Programme, my Department is currently examining wastewater requirements in the context of villages and settlements that do not have public wastewater infrastructure. I have instructed the relevant officials in my Department to prepare a report on this topic at national level. This report will include the analysis of a baseline survey of all rural local authorities to quantify and qualify the number of villages and settlements concerned. I will be in a position to provide further update once I have received this report.

Rent Controls

Questions (52)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

52. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will close the loopholes relating to rent fixing in the rent pressure zone rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22882/21]

View answer

Written answers

The Planning and Development and Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2016 introduced the Rent Predictability Measure to moderate rent increases in those parts of the country where rents are highest and rising fastest, resulting in great difficulty for households finding affordable accommodation. In these areas, called Rent Pressure Zones (RPZ), rents can only increase by a maximum of 4% per annum. The annual rent increase restriction applies to both new and existing tenancies, irrespective of a change of landlord.

Not all properties in RPZs are subject to the 4% restriction.

An exemption applies to the first rent setting of a tenancy of a dwelling where:

- no tenancy existed in respect of the dwelling during the two years immediately prior to this current tenancy beginning;

or

- no tenancy existed in respect of the dwelling where the dwelling is a protected structure, or is in a protected structure or is a proposed protected structure during the 12 months immediately prior to the current tenancy beginning. A protected structure is defined in the Planning and Development Act 2000.

The Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2019 Act provides a legal definition of ‘substantial change in the nature of rental accommodation’ to illustrate the type of works to be carried out to a rental property to qualify for an exemption from the annual rent increase restriction applicable in Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs).

Such works shall result in:

- a permanent extension increasing the floor area by 25%; or

- an improvement in the Building Energy Rating (BER) by at least 7 ratings; or

- at least 3 of the following:

-- a permanent alteration of the internal layout;

-- adaptations for a person with a disability;

-- a permanent increase in the number of rooms;

-- an improvement in the BER by 3 or more ratings where the original BER was D1 or lower; or

-- an improvement in the BER by 2 or more ratings where the original BER was C3 or higher.

The Residential Tenancies Acts 2004 to 2021 do not stipulate a maximum or minimum rent amount to be charged in an area and places no obligation on a landlord to charge a rent. Section 19 of the Acts prohibits the setting of a rent that exceeds the prevailing market rent. There is no legal obstacle to landlords reducing rents in an RPZ or elsewhere in the country.

During the pandemic, landlords are being urged to show forbearance to tenants with regard to the levels of rent payable and any arrangements that might be made should rent arrears arise. It is open to the parties to agree informal temporary rental arrangements during the pandemic and this does not contravene RPZ legislation. Such arrangements are viewed as a pragmatic response to the temporary impacts of Covid-19, lowering rents for tenants when most needed.

In order better enforce RPZ legislation, the Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2019 provided the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) with enhanced powers and resources to carry out investigations and to sanction landlords if required, for any contravention of the 4% rent increase restriction in RPZs. The maximum sanction is €30,000. Alternatively, a tenant may wish to refer a dispute for resolution to the RTB and a lawful rent can be enforced and damages of up to €20,000 can be awarded.

My Department, the Housing Agency and the RTB keeps the operation of the rental market under review. It is important to have rent transparency and a rental system with fair rent and certainty for tenants. I intend to bring forward comprehensive rental legislation in the Autumn with provisions to address long term security of tenure, rent levels and the impact of on-line platforms taking units out of the rental market. The matter raised will be examined in the context of that legislation.

Local Authority Functions

Questions (53)

Alan Farrell

Question:

53. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a blended model including new online methods of conducting local authority business will be adopted as public health restrictions are lifted owing to the greater accessibility this provides to members of the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22879/21]

View answer

Written answers

On 20 October 2020, my colleague, Mr Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage signed a Ministerial Order under Section 29 of the Civil Law and Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 allowing meetings of local authorities to be held remotely. The Order means that any decisions made or votes taken at such remote meetings shall be considered the same as decisions made and votes taken by elected members in a physical location.

It is a reserved function of elected Councils to decide how or if they wish to avail of the Order allowing remote meetings. All have chosen to do so in the current COVID-19 public health environment, amending their standing orders accordingly.

I am aware of a desire among some councillors for the continuation of the option to attend meetings virtually. This will be a matter for each elected Council based on the wishes of elected members, as well as the local authority’s technical capacity to convene such part physical/part virtual hybrid meetings. My Department will continue to monitor developments in this regard.

Local Authorities already offer a blended model for the payment of commercial rates, allowing ratepayers to pay using a selection of the following methods: recurring card payments; payment in person; standing order/direct debit; secure internet payment; electronic banking; and payment by telephone.

Sections, 4, 5 and 10 of the Local Government Rates and Other Matters Act 2019, when commenced, will allow for the wider operation of the commercial rates system (such as billing) by electronic means, providing greater convenience and efficiency for both ratepayers and local authorities. Progress on commencing the Act has been delayed due to the impact of the COVID crisis and ongoing work on the government funded rates waiver. Plans to amend and commence the legislation and introduce requisite regulations are temporarily delayed, with the revised aim of commencing the Act in 2021 and signature of prescribed regulations in 2022.

The ePlanning project currently in development seeks to integrate the IT systems of the 31 planning authorities using a single online portal allowing for the online submission of planning applications, appeals, submissions and associated fees. Once fully rolled out, ePlanning will provide an online option for the public to engage with the planning system, in addition to the paper based system.

The Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) is managing and co-ordinating the development of the ePlanning project on behalf of my Department. The experience of operating the planning system during the Covid19 pandemic has highlighted the important role that online technology could make in the future. The proposed system is now in its final stages of development and testing, following which it is envisaged that the LGMA's rollout of ePlanning nationwide to all local authorities will be completed on a phased basis by Q2 2022.

It should also be noted in this context that planning authorities are required under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (Section 38) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 180 of 2020) to upload planning applications and related documentation onto their internet websites within 5 working days of receipt or, where exceptional circumstances exist, as soon as practicable thereafter. These measures enable members of the public to view documentation online and at planning offices, and facilitate planning applications, appeals or other submissions to be made during the Level 5 restrictions. These arrangements may include provision for attendance at planning offices by appointment so that public health and social distancing requirements can be observed by both staff and customers.

Housing Provision

Questions (54, 69, 79)

Niamh Smyth

Question:

54. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the way the construction of social housing can be accelerated with restrictions on residential construction now lifted. [23001/21]

View answer

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Question:

69. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the measures he is taking to make up for the time lost during the Covid-19 construction lockdown given the ongoing and significant demand for housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23007/21]

View answer

Paul McAuliffe

Question:

79. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the measures being introduced to escalate the scale of housing being built in 2021 following the construction sector shutdown; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23009/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 54, 69 and 79 together.

Increasing the supply of public, social and affordable homes is priority for my Department. The Programme for Government includes a commitment to deliver 50,000 new social homes with a focus on new build homes.

In January, the enhanced Level 5 restrictions introduced by Government involved most residential construction being halted from 8 January until 12 April. Certain essential social housing projects, which were scheduled for completion by 30 April were allowed to continue. This has ensured that social housing continued to be delivered during the first four months of the year. However, the restrictions have involved delays on the majority of housing projects.

It is vital that the supply of housing is accelerated for the remainder of the year and I have been engaging with stakeholders in this regard. I have asked all local authorities to engage with developers, contractors and Approved Housing Bodies to take all possible measures to maximise delivery for the remainder of the year. I have issued a circular to local authorities granting extended discretion in relation to construction working hours, with a view to assisting the construction sector to compensate for lost output. Last week, I also announced further measures to support social housing delivery. This includes a voids programme to provide funding to local authorities to remediate approximately 3,000 vacant properties; an increased focus on Buy and Renew construction to repurpose vacant and underutilised properties as social homes, and a programme of targeted acquisitions.

I will continue to work closely with stakeholders through the year to ensure that the necessary measures are taken to maximise the delivery of housing.

Irish Water

Questions (55)

Danny Healy-Rae

Question:

55. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide funding to Irish Water to replace and bring up to standard disintegrated mains and sewerage treatment plants especially in rural Ireland. [21877/21]

View answer

Written answers

Since 1 January 2014, Irish Water has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local levels. Irish Water takes a strategic, nationwide approach to asset planning and investment, and meeting customer requirements. The prioritisation and progression of individual projects and programmes is a matter for determination by Irish Water.

As part of Budget 2021, I secured funding of over €1.4 billion to support water services. This includes €1.3 billion in respect of domestic water services provision by Irish Water. This overall investment will deliver significant improvements in our public water and wastewater services, support improved water supplies right across Ireland, including rural Ireland, and support a range of programmes delivering improved water quality in our rivers, lakes and marine area.

Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. The team can be contacted via email to oireachtasmembers@water.ie or by telephone on a dedicated number, 1890 578 578.

Housing Provision

Questions (56)

Rose Conway-Walsh

Question:

56. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of affordable purchase homes that will be available in 2021 in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23021/21]

View answer

Written answers

This Government is absolutely committed to ensuring that affordable, quality housing solutions are available to everyone in Irish society and this is reflected in the Programme for Government "Our Shared Future".

I am currently progressing two affordable purchase schemes. The first of these entails the delivery of affordable homes by local authorities. To support this, under the Serviced Sites Fund, €310 million has been allocated to provide infrastructure to support the delivery of more affordable homes on local authority lands. With a maximum of €50,000 funding available per home, at least 6,200 more affordable homes, to buy or rent, can be facilitated. To date, Serviced Sites Funding of €198 million has been approved in principle in support of 39 projects in 14 local authority areas, which will assist in the delivery of over 4,200 affordable homes.All Serviced Sites Fund proposals are assessed on the basis of economic analyses submitted by local authorities, which are required to verify local affordability challenges, project viability, and the ability to deliver affordable homes with at least a 10% discount on open market values. Whilst an application for Serviced Sites funding has not been made by Mayo County Council to date, it is open to the Council to do so should it identify an affordable housing challenge and the viability to deliver homes against the above-mentioned criteria.

Separately, a new National Affordable Purchases Shared Equity scheme is currently being designed for private developments. My intention is that this measure will be available nationally. It will help bridge the gap, by means of an equity stake purchased by the State, between the maximum mortgage available to eligible households and the price of the new home they wish to buy. The objective of the scheme will be to increase housing supply by activating viable planning permissions and to enable First Time Buyers to buy a new home at a price they can afford sooner than would otherwise be the case.

The detailed provisions to operationalise both of these schemes will be contained within a new housing Bill which I intended to bring to the Oireachtas in the very near future to allow their commencement this year.

In the meantime both the Help to Buy and the Rebuilding Ireland Homeloan remain available to eligible purchasers to make the cost of housing more affordable.

Real Estate Investment Trusts

Questions (57)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

57. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will legislate to ban REITs from buying up housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22881/21]

View answer

Written answers

I have serious concerns of instances, recently reported, where investors are inappropriately purchasing entire completed houses estates, preventing their sale to families and first time buyers.

Institutional Investors, including REITS, are regulated by the Department of Finance. The issue of sale and of purchase of land or housing are matters for the Minister for Justice. I am working with my Government colleagues to bring forward comprehensive proposals to address this issue as a matter of urgency.

I would note that institutional investors occupy a relatively small share of the housing market which based on the last census in 2016 was more than 2 million houses and apartments. Industry estimates suggest that the total number of residential units under institutional ownership in Ireland was approximately 15,550 at the end of 2020, less than 1% of the total housing stock.

Historically, the private rented sector in Ireland has been largely made up of small-scale landlords, who will continue to provide the bulk of private rented accommodation. Data provided by the Residential Tenancies Board in November 2020 reports that the majority (over 70%) of landlords registered a single rental tenancy.

The presence of such institutional investors in the market helps to increase the supply of housing, particularly of urban apartments, through forward-funding of development. This is essential to reaching the National Planning Framework targets and to support more sustainable living generally. However the possibility of a trend of investment emerging where already or nearly completed traditional family home estates are purchased in bulk is deeply concerning and not in line with Government policy.

On Tuesday, 4 May last, I received Government approval for the Affordable Housing Bill 2021, which I will shortly be bringing before the Oireachtas. A key aspect of this Bill is the reform of Part V of the Planning and Development Act by increasing the existing 10% obligation for social housing in residential developments to a 20% obligation for social and affordable housing.

I will continue to prioritise the increase in the supply of homes and supports which enable first time buyers access their own home.

Social and Affordable Housing

Questions (58)

Paul McAuliffe

Question:

58. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the social, affordable and cost rental housing projects funded by his Department in Dublin 9 and 11; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23010/21]

View answer

Written answers

To support the delivery of the homes that will be made available by local authorities for purchase, €310 million was made available under the Serviced Sites Fund (SSF). This fund sub-vents the cost of facilitating infrastructure and a maximum SSF funding amount of €50,000 is available per affordable home. On this basis, at least 6,200 more affordable homes, to buy or rent, can be facilitated by this measure alone. This funding is being made available in areas where local authorities have demonstrated a requirement for more affordable housing and the viability to deliver such housing from their sites. To date, funding of €198 million has been approved in principle to provide infrastructural work that will support 39 projects in 14 local authorities, delivering over 4,200 homes.

Three of the aforementioned 39 SSF projects are situated in the Dublin 9 and Dublin 11 area. Details of the number of social, affordable purchase and cost rental homes on these projects are outlined in the table below:

Local Authority

SSF Project

Social homes

Affordable purchase

Cost Rental

Local Authority

SSF Project

Social homes

Affordable purchase

Cost Rental

Dublin City Council

Balbutcher, Ballymun

0

116

0

Dublin City Council

Sillogue, Ballymun

0

85

0

Dublin City Council

Oscar Traynor Road

253

172

0

Total

253

373

0

Dublin City Council (DCC) has advised that both the Sillogue and Balbutcher SSF projects are at the early stages of design and planning. The timeframe for the delivery of such projects entails the detailed design, consultation, planning, procurement and construction phases which, depending on the scale and scope of the project, can take a number of years.

With regard to the Oscar Traynor Road project, in light of the decision by Dublin City Councillors on 16 November 2020 not to proceed with the transfer of this land for this project, in accordance with Section 183 of the Local Government Act, 2001, I understand that the Executive is now engaging with the various parties on the Council to establish an agreed position as to how the site might be best developed. I am committed to assisting this development where possible and have made it clear that my Department is committed to supporting the Council in any way it can and using funding streams available to it.

In relation to social housing, my Department provides both capital and current funding to local authorities across a range of funding initiatives to assist them in providing homes for families and individuals.

My Department operates a number of funding programmes that assist local authorities to work in partnership with Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to construct, purchase and lease new homes and make them available for social housing. Two such programmes that AHBs progress construction projects through are the Capital Advance Loan Facility and the Capital Assistance Scheme. AHBs are making an important contribution to social housing delivery, as envisaged under current Government policy.

To provide transparency on the new social housing projects being advanced, each quarter my Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity. This data, which includes a breakdown of social housing delivery across a range of mechanisms, is available to the end of Quarter 4 2020. Data for Quarter 1 2021 is currently being compiled and will be published in the coming weeks. This data is published on the statistics page of my Department’s website, at the following link: https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/.

In addition to the statistical overview of activity in each local authority, a detailed Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR) is published each quarter. The CSR provides details of individual build projects in each local authority. The most recent publication covers the period up to the end of Q4 2020 and is available at the following link:

https://rebuildingireland.ie/news/minister-obrien-publishes-2020-social-housing-statistics/

These quarterly reports provide details of the social housing construction schemes completed and those in the pipeline including those situated in the Dublin 9 and Dublin 11 areas.

A version of this file can be downloaded at the following link and used for various analysis in terms of stage of activity, location, quarter of completion, number of homes etc.https://rebuildingireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Final-Report.pdf.

Social and Affordable Housing

Questions (59)

Chris Andrews

Question:

59. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will move to the fast-tracking of the regeneration of flat complexes such as Pearse House in south inner city Dublin in the interest of good public health and good community development given the extremely poor condition of several and the urgent need for upgrading these flats; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22893/21]

View answer

Written answers

The upkeep, refurbishment and regeneration of social housing, including flat complexes, is a matter, in the first instance, for the local authority.

Following on from reviews of the conditions of their older flat complexes and based on the need to modernise, bring the living conditions up to acceptable levels and as part of their climate action plans, Dublin City Council (DCC) is developing a long term strategy for the redevelopment and/or refurbishment of many of these complexes. DCC has identified 99 projects across 96 of these flat complexes for redevelopment and/or refurbishment to be progressed in the years 2021 to 2030.

Four of these projects are already on-site delivering 219 units in the next 18 months. 19 projects consisting of over 1,500 flats are already in the pre-construction process including Phase 1 of Pearse House.

My Department is considering proposals for funding under the various social housing programmes including Social Housing Invest Programme (SHIP) and Estate Regeneration/Remedial Works Programme and is supportive of DCC's ambitious plan, subject to funding availability and the procedures and requirements of the Public Spending Code.

DCC have also advised my Department that while the majority of these projects will entail the demolition and rebuilding of the flat complexes, approximately 14 projects, due to being protected structures, will be refurbished and in some cases will need amalgamations (i.e. two in one) due to unacceptable sizes of some homes. My Department and DCC are considering the most appropriate funding streams to enable these remedial works.

With regards to the redevelopment of Pearse House, my Department is currently reviewing a Stage 1 (Capital Appraisal) submission for 75 flats in the Pearse House flat complex. This proposal considers five options that includes amalgamation of some of the smaller units and the possibility of some additionality. The Stage 1 approval-in-principle for DCC to develop the detailed design and advance to Part 8 planning was issued last week and my Department will continue to work to support DCC on this important project.

Housing Provision

Questions (60)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

60. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of houses that have been built here to date in 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22906/21]

View answer

Written answers

In relation to new dwellings built to date in 2021, the Central Statistics Office are responsible for the quarterly publication of New Dwelling Completions. Data for the first quarter of 2021 is not due for publication until Thursday May 6.

20,676 new dwellings were delivered in 2020, and recent estimates predict that a similar number will be delivered in 2021, having regard to lockdown restrictions.

Last year, a total of 7,827 new social homes were delivered, representing over 70% of the annual target for 2020, a significant achievement given lockdown pressures. There were 8,555 social homes onsite nationwide at the end of 2020 and a further 9,085 homes at various stages of the design and tender process.

My Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on all social housing delivery activity. This data is available to the end of 2020 and is published on the statistics page of my Department’s website. Work is currently underway on the collection and collation of the Quarter 1 2021 data and will be published in due course.

I am keenly aware of the need for all forms of supply to be progressed, both social and private. The previous pandemic restrictions on construction in 2020 meant that the progress in activating supply was impacted, though not as largely as initially feared. Action will continue across all measures during 2021 to ensure delivery of the maximum number of new homes.

Vacant Properties

Questions (61)

Niamh Smyth

Question:

61. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of properties brought back into use in County Cavan by the voids stimulus programme in 2020; and the estimated remaining housing stock that could be brought into use in the county by the scheme. [23002/21]

View answer

Written answers

As at the 31st December, 2020 Cavan County Council had remediated 42 properties under the 2020 Voids Stimulus Programme.

My Department will continue to support local authorities in their work remediating vacant social housing properties in 2021. In preparation for this year’s programme correspondence issued to all local authorities requesting they provide figures on the total number of vacant units within their social housing stock as at January 2021. This process will help inform funding requirements and allocations for this year’s programme. A further communication in respect of the 2021 voids programme will issue to all local authorities shortly.

It is important to note that my Department and local authorities are working to transition from a largely response and voids based approach to housing stock management and maintenance to a planned maintenance approach. This will require the completion of stock condition surveys by all local authorities and the subsequent development of strategic and informed work programmes in response. My Department will support these work programmes by ensuring that the funding available under the various stock improvement programmes are aligned with this approach.

Question No. 62 answered with Question No. 47.

Local Authority Management

Questions (63)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

63. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the length of time the permanent position of chief executive of Galway County Council has been vacant following the departure of the outgoing interim chief executive of the Council; when it is expected that the permanent chief executive position will be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22892/21]

View answer

Written answers

The former Chief Executive of Galway County Council retired on 4 July 2014. A temporary Chief Executive was appointed at that time, pending a permanent appointment.

The current temporary Chief Executive remains in place until 23 May 2021. In accordance with statutory provisions, I intend to appoint a new temporary Chief Executive to Galway County Council with effect from 24 May 2021.

In the intervening period, there has been extensive policy development processes examining optimum arrangements for local governance in Galway. Arising from these processes, in June 2018 the Government decided in principle to implement the unanimous recommendation of the Expert Advisory Group to amalgamate Galway City and County Councils by 2021.

In order to progress matters, the Local Government Bill 2018 contained provision for a single chief executive post with dual responsibility for Galway City and County Councils, to, inter alia, progressively implement organisational integration in advance of a full merger. However, these provisions were removed from the Bill through an amendment approved in the Seanad.

In light of the foregoing, it has been deemed appropriate to review the position in relation to the filling of the post of Chief Executive of Galway County Council on a permanent basis. That review process is underway and will be concluded as quickly as possible.

Social and Affordable Housing

Questions (64, 66, 76, 84)

Brendan Smith

Question:

64. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to improve income eligibility limits for social housing in counties Cavan and Monaghan given that the existing limits are much too low at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22857/21]

View answer

Brendan Smith

Question:

66. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when income eligibility limits for social housing will be increased in counties Cavan and Monaghan in which existing limits are far too low at present and unrealistic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22856/21]

View answer

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor

Question:

76. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the review of income thresholds to qualify for a place on a local authority housing list will be complete. [22672/21]

View answer

Brian Stanley

Question:

84. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to increase the threshold for access to social housing in counties Laois and Offaly. [22866/21]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 64, 66, 76 and 84 together.

Applications for social housing support are assessed by the relevant local authority, in accordance with the eligibility and need criteria set down in section 20 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and the associated Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011, as amended.

The 2011 Regulations prescribe maximum net income limits for each local authority, in different bands according to the area concerned, with income being defined and assessed according to a standard Household Means Policy. The 2011 Regulations do not provide local authorities with any discretion to exceed the limits that apply to their administrative areas.

Under the Household Means Policy, which applies in all local authorities, net income for social housing assessment is defined as gross household income less income tax, PRSI, Universal Social Charge and Additional Superannuation Contribution. The Policy provides for a range of income disregards, and local authorities also have discretion to decide to disregard income that is temporary, short-term or once-off in nature.

The income bands are expressed in terms of a maximum net income threshold for a single-person household, with an allowance of 5% for each additional adult household member, subject to a maximum allowance under this category of 10%; and separately, an allowance of 2.5% for each child.

The income bands and the authority area assigned to each band were based on an assessment of the income needed to provide for a household's basic needs, plus a comparative analysis of the local rental cost of housing accommodation across the country. It is important to note that the limits introduced in 2011 also reflected a blanket increase of €5,000 introduced prior to the new system coming into operation, in order to broaden the base from which social housing tenants are drawn, both promoting sustainable communities and also providing a degree of future-proofing.

Given the cost to the State of providing social housing, it is considered prudent and fair to direct resources to those most in need of social housing support. The current income eligibility requirements generally achieve this, providing for a fair and equitable system of identifying those households facing the greatest challenge in meeting their accommodation needs from their own resources.

However, as part of the broader social housing reform agenda, a review of income eligibility for social housing supports in each local authority area is underway. The review will have regard to current initiatives being brought forward in terms of affordability and cost rental and will be completed when the impacts of these parallel initiatives have been considered.

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