asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that, owing to the increased prices of building materials, the housing grants available at the moment are inadequate; and, if so, whether he will introduce proposals for legislation to deal with the matter at an early date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Inadequate Housing Grants.
Present legislation governing grants for private enterprise housing will expire on 1st April, 1952. Proposals for new legislation will be introduced before that date. I am not in a position to indicate the nature of the assistance which will be provided under these proposals.
Mr. Byrne
asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the inadequate grant being made to the Dublin Corporation towards the building of houses and flats for the workers; and, if so, if he will have the grant increased, if necessary by the introduction of proposals for legislation, in order to lighten the burden on the ratepayers and permit the corporation to fix a fair rent for the houses and flats without causing hardship to the tenants who are now forced to pay increased bus fares and increased prices for clothing and food.
I am not aware that the State assistance being made to the Dublin Corporation towards the building of houses and flats is inadequate. The cost of the corporation's housing schemes must be shared between the State, the city ratepayers and the tenants. I am satisfied that the State is paying a fair share.