Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
2920. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the current expenditure on the capital assistance scheme; the amount allocated for 2019 for accommodating persons moving out of congregated settings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33391/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) finances Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs), through the local authorities, to provide social housing for tenants with specified categories of need, including older people, people with disabilities and homeless people. The funding provision for CAS for 2019 is €94 million and over €26.5 million has already been expended on the scheme this year.
No precise amount is set aside under CAS for accommodation to support people moving from congregated settings. Instead, the scheme is available to support suitable projects brought forward and AHBs can submit project proposals to local authorities at any time. In 'Calls for Proposals' and communications that have issued relating to CAS, the provision of accommodation for people moving from congregated settings is identified as a priority; however, it is recognised that there is a range of challenges involved with such projects.
My Department continues to work with the Department of Health and the HSE to coordinate efforts to support the move by people from congregated settings to community based housing and CAS funding continues to be available to support the development of suitable housing in this regard.
