asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the difficulties being experienced by applicants seeking approvals under the new home improvement grant scheme; that some applicants are waiting 16 weeks for an inspection; that some of those that have been inspected are being offered reduced grants, which would require repairing rather than full replacement or improvement; and if he is aware that these delays and reduced grant allocations are causing job losses, particularly in the aluminium window replacement industry.
Written Answers. - Home Improvement Grant Scheme.
54.
I am not so aware. As the new scheme did not come into operation until 1 December 1985 (18 November 1985 in the case of widow/door replacement) delays of the order suggested could not have arisen. I have taken a number of measures to increase the Department's capacity to carry out inspections including the re-engagement of a number of retired inspectors familiar with the work, the introduction of a bonus scheme for the existing inspectorate and the recruitment, now in progress through the National Manpower Service, of additional temporary inspectors.
I am satisfied that the inspectors are carrying out their duties satisfactorily and that a reasonable approach is being adopted by them. The explanatory memorandum HA 2 issued for the guidance of applicants clearly specifies that grants are given for replacement of windows which in the opinion of the Department have deteriorated to the extent that there is no option but to replace them. Accordingly it does not follow that maximum grants would be payable in all cases.