Vol. 508 No. 3
100 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will amend the terms of reference of the special housing aid scheme for the elderly in order to enable elderly persons to avail of central heating under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17298/99]
The task force on special housing aid for the elderly, which is operated by health boards, administers an emergency aid programme to improve the housing conditions of elderly persons living alone in unfit or unsanitary accommodation. Typically, aid is available under the scheme for repairs which would make a dwelling habitable for the lifetime of the occupant. Given the nature of the scheme and the purpose for which it is intended, the installation of central heating systems would not come within its scope.
However, in cases where heating is deficient, some form of heating can be provided under the scheme. Certain works such as the installation of an additional radiator, upgrading a range, repairing a chimney or fire-place, provision of storage heaters or oil-filled radiators could be undertaken.
In addition there are a number of options currently available to local authorities to assist older people in securing necessary improvement works to their housing including the provision of heating facilities. These include the disabled persons grant scheme, the scheme of improvement works in-lieu of local authority housing and local authority house improvement loans.
