Written Answers Nos. 278-280
278. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the Hill of Allen can be included on the Register of Historic Monuments; if the option of bringing the site into public ownership can be explored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50009/23]
View answerI refer to the reply to Dáil Question No. 138 on 11 October which sets out the position in this matter.
279. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if, with regard to the housing units on the grounds of a site (details supplied), he will clarify when funding will be allocated to Kildare County Council to refurbish these properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50010/23]
View answerThe development referred to in the question was funded under my Department's Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) approximately 30 years ago, providing 10 age friendly homes and a communal facility. I understand that the AHB originally involved in this development has ceased operation, which has resulted in some of the homes becoming vacant and now requiring capital investment.
Thanks to the work of Kildare County Council, I understand that another AHB has been identified which it is proposed, will take ownership of the properties. I also understand that the properties require further investment and that Kildare County Council is now assessing a recent funding application from the new AHB.
While a CAS funding application has not yet been made to my Department by Kildare County Council, we expect to receive one soon. Given our focus on tackling vacancy and providing high quality social homes, my Department looks forward to receiving such an application and will consider it as soon as received.
280. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Social Protection the rationale for delaying the extension of the child benefit payment to 18-year-olds in full-time education until August 2024. [49903/23]
View answerThe extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education was one of my key priorities as part of Budget 2024. The measure is expected to benefit approximately 60,000 18-year-olds each year at an estimated cost of €21.6 million in 2024.
With many children now starting primary school at age 5, together with the increase in pupils doing transition year, there has been an increase in the number of 18-year-olds still in secondary education. I believe the extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education is a long-term change for the better and will support families across Ireland into the future.
This is a significant change to the Child Benefit scheme which will require technical and operational changes to the social welfare system before implementation. For this reason, the change will take effect from September 2024. Where a child in full time education turns 18 in the meantime they will be covered by the extension from September 2024 until they turn 19.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
