asked the Minister for the Environment why the essential repairs scheme is available only to people in rural areas; the number who availed of the scheme last year; and when the rates of grant under the scheme were last altered.
Written Answers. - Essential Repairs Scheme.
204.
The essential repairs grant scheme is confined to rural areas because the problem to which the scheme relates is associated almost entirely with elderly people living in remote locations in substandard houses for which there may not be a continuing need.
In the year ended 31 December 1978, the numbers of grants allocated and paid were 139 and 174 respectively. The maximum State grant was increased in August 1978 from £80 to £300 in respect of works commenced on or after 1 November 1977.