asked the Minister for Local Government if, in view of the fact that Dublin Corporation are advancing loans of £6,000 in respect of certain purchase houses, he will increase the SDA new house loan limit to the same figure.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - House Loans.
37.
While I have no immediate plans to increase the local authority house purchase loan limit of £4,500, I am keeping the matter under continuing review. In the case referred to by the Deputy, the figure of £6,000 represents the maximum net amount, after deduction of the appropriate deposit, to be paid to Dublin Corporation by persons who qualify by means of a public draw to purchase houses specially built by the corporation for sale to tenants of corporation dwellings or persons on the approved housing list and others whose present accommodation is unsuitable or inadequate.
Is it to be taken from the Minister's reply that he is discriminating against a large section of the community? As Minister for Local Government, he permits approval of loans for £6,000 by Dublin Corporation and denies that facility to others in urgent need of housing. Is that the Minister's policy?
I am allowed to continue the policy which was adopted by the previous Government for very many years. I approve of the idea that tenants of corporation houses, who are vacating them, or people who are on the housing list, if they qualify for rehousing and if they are successful in the draw, can get up to £6,000 from Dublin Corporation. That is not discriminating against anybody.
I am glad to see the Minister is keeping the matter under review. Could he tell us what new factor would help him to decide on a change of limit?
About £30 million.
Would the £30 million be capital money?
Is the Deputy in a position to lend it?