(Cavan) asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that certain tenants of local authority cottages who did not make application to have their cottages vested before the 30th June, 1968 and who wish to do so appear to be precluded from having their cottages vested now; and if he will take steps to amend the law in order to permit these tenants to vest their cottages under the Labourers Act, 1936.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cottage Vesting.
20.
I am so aware. The relevant provisions of the Labourers Act, 1963, were replaced without objection from the House by the Housing Act, 1966, under which a local authority may sell cottages to the tenant for the market or replacement value less discounts of up to 30 per cent for cottages in built-up areas and 45 per cent for cottages in other areas. In these circumstances, I do not propose to introduce legislation on the lines suggested by the Deputy.
(Cavan): Is the Minister aware that through ignorance or through other causes quite a number of tenants failed to apply to have their cottages vested within this specified time and as a result they are now precluded by law from vesting their cottages? In view of the fact that their failure to apply in time was in most cases due to ignorance, or in some cases because they were absent from their cottages, would the Minister consider granting a short extension of, say, six months to give those who wish to vest their cottages an opportunity of doing so? It would not be unreasonable.
I am satisfied that adequate notice was given. In many cases where there is a deadline there will always be cases of people who do not take the necessary steps. The cottages can be purchased under the Housing Act, 1966.
The Minister is aware that it costs much more to purchase houses, in the same line of houses, under present legislation than it did previously and this sounds most unfair to people with, perhaps, lesser incomes?
I am aware that local authorities will get better value for their property.
And unfortunately the people will get less equitable treatment.
They will get a good bargain and a house at a good price.