asked the Minister for Local Government when he will announce the conclusions of his review of the present grant scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing Grant Scheme.
4.
I assume the question refers to housing grants. The present scheme of grants is being examined as part of the review of housing policy in relation to both public and private housing. Pending the completion of this review, I am not in a position to announce any conclusions on the operation of the grants scheme.
Is the Minister aware of our proposals on this matter and has he seen recently an announcement in Northern Ireland of very large increases in housing grants, repair grants, and other appropriate grants? In view of the fact that in some cases these grants have not been changed since 1970—some of them were later —and in view of increased labour costs and material costs, would he agree that a very strong case can be made for very substantial increases in all grants related to housing and water services?
All these matters are being taken into account.
Would the Minister not agree that a situation where the Government makes more through VAT than they give out in grants to the person building a house should not be tolerated for a minute?
I have already stated that the matter is under review and I shall bring this before the House as soon as I possibly can.