Theresa Ahearn
Ceist:166 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for the Environment if he intends to recommend to local authorities the installation of back boilers in local authority houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1509/94]
Written Answers. - Installation of Back-Boilers.
Housing authorities were advised by my Department on 10 February last that full central heating should be provided in new local authority housing. It is a matter for each authority to decide on the type of heating system to be provided. They must be satisfied that the cost of the system to be provided is reasonable, that it is safe, efficient in the use of energy and appropriate to the tenant's needs and circumstances, that it can be adequately maintained and that it will not result in unsustainable running and maintenance costs.
In addition, in the smoke control area in Dublin the means of heating must be electricity, gas or oil or, if a solid fuel system is used, the heating appliance must be such as will limit the emission of smoke. A similar regime is to apply in the new proposed smoke control area in Cork.