Ivana Bacik
Question:414. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will make a statement on the need to support older persons to downsize. [10427/24]
View answerTuesday, 5 March 2024
Questions (414)
Written answers
Housing for All commits to increasing the housing options available to older people to facilitate ageing in place with dignity and independence, including the development of a policy on rightsizing. The Housing for All policy objective to make more efficient use of existing housing stock includes the development of a national policy on rightsizing and to explore options to support and incentivise rightsizing on a voluntary basis.
Whilst some local authorities operate rightsizing schemes, housing supports and the oversight and practical management of housing waiting lists, including the application for, and allocation of, tenancies, is solely a matter for the relevant local authority in accordance with the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, and associated regulations. Work is being advanced in my Department to inform and progress the development of national policy on rightsizing.