Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 31 March 2022
245. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will review the case of a person (details supplied) who has been disqualified from social housing due to maintenance payments bringing them over the income threshold; the alternative supports or pathways that are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17179/22]
View answerApplications for social housing support are assessed by the relevant local authority in accordance with the eligibility and need criteria set down in the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and the associated Social Housing Assessment Regulations.
The 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 Policy defines net income as gross household income less income tax, PRSI, Universal Social Charge and Additional Superannuation Contribution. It also provides for a range of income disregards, and local authorities have discretion to disregard temporary, short-term or once-off income. However, with limited exceptions, income from social insurance and social assistance payments, allowances and benefits, maintenance payments and occupational and social welfare pensions (from whatever source, including from abroad) is assessable.
Rent Supplement is available for people living in private rented accommodation who cannot provide for the cost of their accommodation from their own resources. If there has been a recent change in a household’s circumstance and the household requires short-term support with their rent, they may apply for rent supplement.
