HBFI has been established as an independent, commercial entity to provide lending for new housing construction. As Minister for Finance I do not have any role in these commercial decisions and it is not appropriate for me to comment on individual credit applications.
HBFI lending activities must be both commercial and comply with State aid rules. I am advised by HBFI that it intends to engage with approved voluntary and co-operative housing bodies with a view to identifying commercially viable lending opportunities to support new social housing delivery that are in line with HBFI’s independent, commercial mandate. Further information on HBFI’s lending criteria are available on its website, www.hbfi.ie .