Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 February 2022
72. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will remove the means testing for persons that suffer from thalidomide that are applying for housing adaptation grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6935/22]
View answerMy Department provides funding to local authorities so as to enable them administer the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability scheme. These schemes assist eligible applicants living in privately owned homes to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs.
The grants available operate on a sliding scale with the highest percentage grants available to those with the lowest incomes and vice versa. The schemes are means tested. Grant assistance is not available to applicants whose household income exceeds €60,000 per annum.
Housing for All, however, commits to undertaking a review of the range of housing grants available to assist with meeting specific housing needs both for our ageing population and people with a disability which includes a review of the existing grant limits and income thresholds applicable to the grant schemes. The review is being undertaken this year.
