asked the Minister for Local Government the prospects of an early award of tenancies in respect of the council houses now in course of construction at Carrigans, County Donegal; and whether he will make a statement on the delay in completing this housing scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Donegal Housing.
31.
This is a matter entirely for Donegal County Council.
While I appreciate that this is a normal matter for Donegal County Council, or any other county council, is the Minister aware that this scheme was started and that tenancies were allocated over a year ago, that the scheme is still probably not more than half constructed, that the original builder has now gone and the local authority have apparently had to take over and that grave hardship is being caused as a result of all this?
I am aware of what Deputy Blaney says, but it is a matter for Donegal County Council. I am sure Deputy Blaney is aware that the housing scheme is now being completed by the country council by direct labour and it is proposed to have the work finished by 31st March. I understand one of the houses has been allocated to someone in the area living in a caravan. The remainder will be allocated in due course.
Could I ask the Minister whether it was, in fact, as a result of any effort on his part that some quick move was eventually made in this matter because I raised the matter here before Christmas?
I will leave that to the Deputy to consider himself.
If the Minister did it he would be boasting about it.
Deputy Blaney can take credit for his question.
32.
asked the Minister for Local Government the present position with regard to the erection of further council houses in Ramelton, County Donegal.
The latest progress report of Donegal County Council shows that three schemes comprising 18 houses, at Ramelton are at tender stage. The schemes are being dealt with by the council within their devolved responsibilities.
Are we to take it, in relation to housing and similar matters, that the Minister seems to be prepared to wash his hands entirely of responsibility for anything that is being done or not being done properly by any local authority?
I had better lay it on the line for Deputy Blaney though he was himself a Minister for Local Government and he should know. Local authorities have the right to decide whether or not houses are required in their areas and I have given them authority to build up to 60 houses without reference to the Department of Local Government. Does Deputy Blaney suggest I should go around to each county council and plead with them to erect houses whether or not those houses are required?
Question No. 33.
(Interruptions.)
I am doing a damn good job.
Might I ask the Minister whether he is aware that in the 1966 Housing Act there is a specific section giving the Minister authority to move in when any county council is not doing its job?
We cannot have an argument on this. We shall have to pass on.
I have no evidence before me that Donegal County Council are not doing their job.