Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 October 2022
286. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has conducted any specific analysis of the impact of the tax and social welfare changes on households currently on social housing waiting lists who may as a result of their changed income circumstances, lose their entitlement to social housing supports. [48291/22]
View answerThe overarching principle of social housing support is reflected in the underpinning legislation and the Household Means Policy, the latter being amended last year. The amended policy aims to better reflect the long-term nature of social housing supports and, in doing so, ensure fairness and equity in the system and that those with a continuing long-term need are prioritised.
A social housing eligibility assessment includes a review of the applicant's net average income for the 12 months prior to application. 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.
I have recently, approved proposals to scope and develop options for a revised or new social housing income eligibility model. This work will commence shortly and is expected to complete by the end of 2022.
