Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 December 2021
256. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if exceptions can be made in relation to the previous 12-month income threshold for social housing support in cases in which the circumstances of a person change such as a dramatic reduction in income due to losing their job; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60364/21]
View answerApplications for social housing support are assessed by local authorities 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, while income is defined and assessed by local authorities according to a standard Household Means Policy.
Social housing is a long-term support intended to support households that have continuing, long-term difficulty meeting their own accommodation needs. This is reflected in the underpinning legislation and the Household Means Policy which provides for applicants’ eligibility to be assessed on their net average income over the previous 12 months from the date of their application. This is a fairer measurement of long-term need than heretofore. It allows for a more comprehensive picture of a household’s current and previous income at the time of assessment and ensures supports are prioritised for those who need them most. While local authorities may, in line with the policy, disregard certain incomes, and income that is temporary, short-term or once-off, they have no discretion regarding the 12-month income requirement.
My Department will continue to monitor implementation of the policy and consider any issues arising. My Department is also reviewing income eligibility supports for social housing as part of the social housing reform agenda, including the appropriateness of the current banding structure and thresholds, and their application to local authorities. I intend the review to be completed before the end of the year.
In the meantime, applicants who are not eligible for social housing support and have recently lost employment can apply for short-term supports, such as rent supplement. They can also re-apply for social housing support if they consider, having regard to the current eligibility criteria, they qualify for such support.
