Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 October 2018
517. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the reason household income limits apply in respect of the disabled person's grant in cases in which the disabled person is an adult and has no income other than disability allowance in view of the fact that it would be cheaper for the State to adapt the family home rather than house them separately as is the case. [40608/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe application of a household means test in relation to the housing adaptation grants for older people and people with a disability is designed to achieve fairness and value for money, while focusing funding on those with greatest needs.
For the purposes of the housing adaptation grant for people with a disability, household income is calculated as the annual gross income of the registered property owner together with all household members over 18, or over 23 if in full-time education, in the previous tax year. Certain income is not taken into account, or is disregarded, in calculating household income, including €5,000 for each member of the household up to 18 years, family income supplement, domiciliary care allowance and carer's benefit or carer's allowance, if paid in respect of the person to whom the grant application relates.
The detailed administration of the grants, including the assessment, approval and payment of individual grants to applicants, is the responsibility of the relevant local authority. Local authorities will endeavour to provide the appropriate solution in each situation.
