Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 September 2019
674. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the estimated full year cost if the budget for housing adaptation grants for older people and people with a disability scheme increased by 7.5%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37399/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2019, a total of €71.25 million is available for the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Scheme, in respect of private houses. This is made up of €57 million Exchequer funding, which is an increase of some 8% on the 2018 figure, with the balance of €14.25m being contributed by the local authorities. The suite of grants include the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability, the Mobility Aids Grant and the Housing Aid for Older People.
Increasing funding by 7.5% would cost an additional €4.27 million to the Exchequer, with a further €1.07 million to be contributed by the local authorities.
Further consideration will be given to increasing funding over the coming years in the context of the range of housing supports and provision being made under Rebuilding Ireland and also considering the commitments under the Government's Housing Options for Our Ageing Population - Policy Statement (Actions 4.1/4.2), which is available on my Department's website at the following link: https://www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/publications/files/housingoptionsforanageingpopulationeng_web.pdf.
