Local Authority Housing Provision

Tuesday, 24 November 2015

Ceisteanna (550)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

550. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his policy on housing allocation to lone parents with joint custody of children; why South Dublin County Council, Fingal County Council and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council have implemented policies for allocating two-bed plus homes to parents with relevant legal documentation, proving their custody arrangements, while Dublin City Council does not have such a policy; if he has addressed this discriminatory measure with Dublin City Council; the measures he is taking to address this discriminatory handling of housing cases of separated parents; if Dublin City Council's arrangements conform with current legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41618/15]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

The allocation of social housing support to qualified households is a matter for the local authority concerned, in accordance with its allocation scheme made in accordance with section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and associated Regulations. This legislation requires all housing authorities, as a reserved function, to make an allocation scheme determining the order of priority to be accorded in the allocation of dwellings to households qualified for social housing support, the allocation of which would, in the opinion of the authority, meet the accommodation needs and requirements of the households. As Minister, I am precluded under housing legislation from exercising any power or control in relation to any case being dealt with by a housing authority.