Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:225. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Finance if the help-to-buy scheme application by a person (details supplied) will be expedited. [27018/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing Schemes
Ceisteanna (225)
Freagraí scríofa
I am advised by Revenue that they have examined the tax records of the persons concerned and the parties’ application for the Help-To-Buy (HTB) has now been approved, having been originally submitted on 27 April 2022.
For clarity, the HTB scheme has two stages – the ‘application stage’ where the eligibility of the applicant(s) is determined, together with the maximum relief available and the ‘claim stage’ where the eligibility of the property is confirmed as well as the actual relief due. The persons concerned can now move to the claim stage of the process.
If any further clarification is required Revenue have requested that the persons concerned contact them via their National PAYE Helpline on 01-7383636 or alternatively, they can contact Revenue via MyEnquiries (which can be accessed through MyAccount).
Financial Services
Ceisteanna (226)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:226. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Finance the steps that he is taking to require mortgage protection practices to accept medical evidence provided by general practitioners or consultants. [27200/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy is aware, there is a broad legal and regulatory framework in place which governs the provision of mortgages to consumers.
Specifically in relation to mortgage protection insurance, section 126 of the Consumer Credit Act 1995 provides that mortgage lenders shall ensure that a mortgage applicant has a life assurance policy in place before granting a mortgage loan. This is an important statutory provision which is designed to protect the borrower's dependants and their home should the borrower die before the mortgage has been repaid. However, the Act also recognises that in certain cases such protection is not necessary or would not be appropriate and it provides for a number of limited exemptions to this statutory obligation. These exceptions are:
- where the house in respect of which the loan is made is, in the mortgage lender's opinion, not intended for use as the principal residence of the borrower or of his/her dependants;
- loans to persons who belong to a class of persons which would not be acceptable to an insurer, or which would only be acceptable to an insurer at a premium significantly higher than that payable by borrowers generally;
- loans to persons who are over 50 years of age at the time the loan is approved;
- loans to persons who, at the time the loan is made, have otherwise arranged life assurance, providing for payment of a sum, in the event of death, that will at least cover the outstanding balance on the mortgage.
However, it should also be noted that, as a contractual matter, mortgage lenders could still require that a life insurance policy is put in place in such circumstances as a condition for the mortgage.
In relation to the operation of the life assurance market, the Central Bank expects the insurance industry to engage with its customers in an open, fair and transparent manner. However, it is important to note that, subject to compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements governing the provision of life assurance, that insurance underwriting decisions and the medical and other evidence required to assist such decision making are a commercial and business matter for the life assurance provider having regard to their own risk analysis.
Nevertheless, if an applicant for a mortgage and/or life assurance is not satisfied with the way a regulated firm is dealing with them, or they believe that the regulated firm is not following the requirements of the Central Bank’s codes and regulations or other financial services law, they should make a complaint directly to the regulated firm.
If an applicant for a mortgage/life assurance is not satisfied with the response from the regulated entity to that complaint, the person may then submit the matter to the statutory and independent Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman.
Civil Service
Ceisteanna (227)
Michael Lowry
Ceist:227. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will report on the civil service blended working policy framework; if his Department, in collaboration with civil service employers, trade unions and staff associations have finalised and developed their tailored policies on blended working that are appropriate to their business needs and employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27021/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil Service Organisations was published on Thursday 31st March 2022. The Framework provides for a consistent facilitation of remote working across the Civil Service, appropriate to local business needs, while maintaining the Civil Service’s position as an employer of choice. This document was published following a thorough and productive engagement with employee representative bodies at a national level. It includes a template on which individual Government Departments can build their own local policies. The current status of progress on tailored, individual policies is for individual Departments to comment on, although in general, the Civil Service as a whole has kept pace on the development of their policies. Within my own Department, a draft local policy has undergone engagement with local staff representatives and is expected to be submitted to the local Management Board for further review at their next meeting. We expect the local policy to launch by the end of June 2022. This is broadly in keeping with the expected timeframe with other Departments.
I welcomed the publication of the Blended Working Policy Framework at its launch in March which marked the beginning of a new model of working in the Civil Service. The flexibility which blended working affords to both employees and their employers will be essential to the continued delivery of high quality services to Government, the public, and to business.
The publication and implementation of local policies is also welcomed, as Departments are preparing to introduce more sustainable arrangements for blended working and in a more balanced manner, allowing for face-to-face interaction and collaboration with colleagues, as well as the benefits of a remote working arrangement.
Oideachas Riachtanas Speisialta
Ceisteanna (228)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Ceist:228. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán an bhfuil sé i gceist aici an t-uasmhéid is féidir le Campaí Samhraidh, atá á reachtáil le cúnamh airgid atá curtha ar fáil ag a Roinn, a ghearradh ar thuismitheoirí nó caomhnóirí gasúr atá ag freastal ar na campaí samhraidh a ardú, nó an bhfuil sé i gceist aici an íocaíocht in aghaidh an rannpháirtí a mhéadú i gcomhréir leis an gcostas maireachtála; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [27010/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Cuireann mo Roinn maoiniú €330,000 sa bhliain ar fáil d’Údarás na Gaeltachta a bhfuil an fhreagracht orthu Scéim na gCampaí Samhraidh a riar sa Ghaeltacht thar ceann na Roinne. Tá an cúram sin bronnta ag an Údarás ar Mhuintearas Teo, fóchuideachta dá gcuid. Téann an fóirdheontas a chuireann mo Roinn ar fáil faoin scéim chun tairbhe tuairim is 6,000 páiste a fhreastalaíonn ar thart ar 200 campa aitheanta sa Ghaeltacht. Baineann €30,000 den chostas le riar na scéime agus é iníochta le Muintearas.
Tuigtear dom go bhfuil sé mar choinníoll den scéim nach mbeidh an táille a bheidh á gearradh ar rannpháirtithe níos airde ná deontas na Roinne (€50 i gcás gach rannpháirtí ar champa nach giorra ná 5 lá agus €100 i gcás campa nach giorra ná 10 lá).
Déantar eisceacht do na campaí sin a bhíonn ar siúl os cionn cúig uair an chloig in aghaidh an lae. 'Siad lucht eagraithe na gcampaí a dhéanann an cinneadh maidir leis an táille a ghearrtar ar rannpháirtithe agus tacaíonn fóirdheontas na Roinne leis an táille sin a choinneáil íseal.
Tá comhaontú sínithe ag an Roinn leis an Údarás mar a bhaineann sé le campaí 2022 a bheidh ag tosú i gceann cúpla seachtaine mar is iondúil. Déantar athbhreithniú ar an gcomhaontú sin go rialta lena n-áirítear an ciste a cheadaítear ina leith.
Táthar sásta trí chéile go bhfuil leas á bhaint as maoiniú na scéime ar leas foriomlán an lucht freastail.
Sports Funding
Ceisteanna (229)
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:229. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the process for appealing a refusal on the Sport Capital Grant; when the approved appellants will be announced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27102/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country. Over 13,000 projects have now benefitted from sports capital funding since 1998, bringing the total allocations in that time to over €1.1 billion. The Programme for Government commits to continuing the SCEP and to prioritising investment in disadvantaged areas.
The 2020 round of the SCEP closed for applications on Monday 1 March 2021 and by the deadline a record 3,100 applications were submitted. Approximately one thousand of the submitted applications were for 'equipment-only' projects. These applications were assessed first and grants with a total value of €16.6 million were announced on 6 August, 2021.
The remaining capital applications were then assessed and 1,865 individual grant offers with a total value of over €143.8 million were announced on Friday 11 February 2022. This represented the highest level of allocation ever made under the SCEP.
Unsuccessful applicants were able to appeal the Department's decision. The deadline for submission of appeals was Monday 4 April and 146 appeals were received. Of the record €150 million made available for capital projects, €6 million has been kept in reserve for any successful appeals. The preliminary assessment of all appeals has now been complete and it is hoped to announce consequent allocations shortly.
Once the appeal process is complete, a full review of the 2020 round of the SCEP will be undertaken and recommendations arising will be reflected in the terms and conditions of the next round. The precise timing of this next round of the Programme will be announced once this review is complete.
Hare Coursing
Ceisteanna (230)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:230. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of hares that have been recorded as killed during hare coursing activities annually between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2021, inclusive. [27187/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The relevant data is collected by coursing season rather than full calendar year. To this end the following information, as supplied by the Irish Coursing Club, covers the coursing seasons 2017/2018 to 2021/2022:
|
Sept 2017 to Feb 2018 |
Sept 2018 to Feb 2019 |
Sept 2019 to Feb 2020 |
Sept 2020 to Feb 2021 |
Sept 2021 to Feb 2022 |
|
|
Total Hares Captured |
5,044 |
4,973 |
2,920 |
3,430 |
3,690 |
|
No. of Hares Died |
16 |
15 |
9 |
0 |
12 |
Animal Welfare
Ceisteanna (231)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:231. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has commissioned or funded a survey of the population of wild hares in Ireland since 1 January 2015. [27189/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Irish Hare is protected under the Irish Wildlife Acts and is also listed on Annex V of EU Directive 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive). This listing requires member states to manage the species’ sustainably. The Habitats Directive also requires Ireland to make a detailed report every six years on the conservation status of all listed species, including the Irish hare.
Ireland’s most recent report in 2019 included a comprehensive assessment of the range, population status, habitat and threats for the Irish Hare. The report can be downloaded at www.npws.ie/publications/article-17-reports/article-17-reports-2019
The 2019 report notes that the Hare is widespread and common in Ireland with a broad habitat niche; it is found throughout the country from coastal habitats to upland heath and bog. The report does highlight some concerns about the loss of habitat quality due to agricultural intensification and afforestation, but overall the species is considered to be in favourable conservation status.
In addition, the most recent Red Data List for Mammals in Ireland (2019) confirmed that the species is not threatened; it assessed the Irish hare as “Least concern”
www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/Red%20List%20No.%2012%20Mammals.pdf
The most recent national hare survey took place from November 2018 to February 2019. It was commissioned by the National Parks & Wildlife Service and involved the extensive deployment of trail cameras providing the data equivalent to 106,026 survey hours.
The national population was estimated at 223,000 (111,000–449,000) individual Hares during 2018/19.
The mean density of Irish Hare was estimated at 3.19 Hares/km2 (95% confidence intervals: 1.59–6.43) with highest and very comparable densities in the northwest (3.50 Hares/km2 ) and southwest (3.46 Hares/km2 ) regions and lowest density in the east (2.66 Hares/km2 ). The average estimate was 4.5% lower than the 3.33 Hares/km2 estimated during 2006 and 58% lower than the 7.44 Hares/km2 estimated during 2007. Nevertheless, such was the width of the 95% confidence intervals that the 2018/19 density estimate cannot be said to be significantly lower than the previous survey. The mean density estimate was comparable to the 20 year mean density from all surveys since 2000 of c. 3 Hares/km2 suggesting that, inter-annual fluctuations aside, the population remains stable.
The full report of the 2018/2019 survey can be downloaded here: www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/IWM113.pdf
Local Authorities
Ceisteanna (232)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Ceist:232. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if each tenant of a local-authority house has to individually inform the relevant local authority of annual increases in social welfare rates of payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26998/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The right of local authorities to set and collect rents on their dwellings is laid down in section 58 of the Housing Act 1966. The making or amending of differential rent schemes and the calculation of the rent payable is an executive function and is subject to broad principles set out by my Department, including that rent levels should be based on income and reflect tenants’ ability to pay.
It is my understanding that while local authorities can carry out periodic rent reviews to ensure that the correct rent is applied to an individual tenancy, the tenancy agreements in place between a local authority and its tenants stipulate that it is the tenants’ responsibility to inform the local authority of any changes in circumstances, including any changes to income, so that the rent payable can be reassessed. Early notification of any income changes can help prevent the accrual of arrears.
Housing Schemes
Ceisteanna (233)
Michael Lowry
Ceist:233. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason that an application to the local authority home loan scheme by persons (details supplied) was refused; if this refusal will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27005/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Local Authority Home Loan is a Government backed mortgage for those on modest or low incomes who cannot get sufficient funding from commercial banks to purchase or build a home. It has been available nationwide from local authorities since 4 January 2022 for first-time buyers and fresh start applicants. The loan can be used both for new and second-hand properties, or to self-build. It is the successor to the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan.
Section 63(3) of the Local Government Act 2001 provides that, subject to law, a local authority is independent in the performance of its functions. Section 6 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 specifically provides that the Minister's power to issue policy directions and guidelines to housing authorities in relation to their housing functions should not be construed as enabling the Minister to exercise any power or control in relation to any individual case with which a housing authority is or may be concerned. I am, therefore, precluded from intervening in relation to individual cases.
The final decision on loan approval is a matter for each local authority and its Credit Committee on a case-by-case basis. Decisions on all housing loan applications must be made in accordance with the statutory credit policy that underpins the scheme, in order to ensure consistency of treatment for all applicants.
Applications for a Local Authority Home Loan for the purposes of funding a self-build property will only be considered in circumstances where the security property in question is a new construction, i.e. properties that are part-built or otherwise commenced at the time of making a Local Authority Home Loan application will not be eligible for consideration.
Housing Policy
Ceisteanna (234, 235, 236)
Steven Matthews
Ceist:234. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the details regarding any research carried out on behalf of his Department into the level of requirement for wheelchair-liveable homes on social housing lists at a national level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27020/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraSteven Matthews
Ceist:235. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the housing needs demand assessment being carried out by each local authority assesses and includes figures related to the level of requirement for wheelchair-liveable homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27022/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraSteven Matthews
Ceist:236. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the details of any research that has been carried out into the level of demand for wheelchair-liveable homes by or on behalf of his Department; the number of wheelchair-liveable homes that are expected to be delivered under Housing for All by year-end 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27023/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 234, 235 and 236 together.
The initiation, design, planning, development and management of housing projects is a matter for local authorities in exercise of their statutory functions as Housing Authorities. In March, 2021 my Department introduced a revised social housing application form, in consultation with the local authority sector, to include an identifier for persons requiring 'wheelchair liveable' accommodation.
My Department is collaborating with the LGMA and the Housing Agency on a project examining, inter alia, how the data captured in the Summary of Social Housing Assessments (SSHA) aligns with changes made to the social housing application form, including in respect of a need for 'wheelchair liveable' accommodation. This work will be completed before the 2022 SSHA exercise commences.
Objective 37 of the National Planning Framework requires each local authority to carry out a Housing Needs Demand Assessment (HNDA) in order to correlate and accurately align overall future housing requirements, as an evolution of their existing Housing Strategy requirements under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000. The HNDA framework also aims to ensure support of independent living for people requiring more specialised types of housing or support needs, including accessible and wheelchair housing.
I launched a new joint National Housing Strategy for Disabled People (NHSDP) 2022-2027 on 14 January 2022, together with my colleagues Mr Peter Burke, Minister of State for Local Government and Panning and Ms. Anne Rabbitte, T.D., Minister of State with responsibility for Disability (available at gov.ie - National Housing Strategy for Disabled People 2022 – 2027 (www.gov.ie) ) The new Strategy sets out the vision for the cooperation and collaboration of Government Departments, state agencies and others in delivering housing and the related supports for disabled people over the next five years. This new Strategy will operate within the framework of Housing for All – A New Housing Plan for Ireland which is committed to ensuring that affordable, quality housing with an appropriate mix of housing design types provided within social housing, including universally designed units, is available to everyone in Irish society, including those with disabilities. Preparation of an Implementation Plan for the Strategy is underway with a target for completion by the second quarter of 2022.
A key action of Housing for All is that local authorities will prepare Housing Delivery Action Plans to include details of their anticipated delivery of social housing over the period 2022-2026 including housing for disabled people. The Plans are informed by the targets for social housing delivery contained in Housing for All, and individual targets issued to each local authority in September 2021 for the same period. They set out details of local authority delivery in addition to other delivery partners, including Approved Housing Bodies. This is the first such multi-annual delivery planning undertaken by the sector and will be an iterative process throughout the 5 years. The plans will be published by local authorities before the end of Quarter 2 2022.
Question No. 235 answered with Question No. 234.
Question No. 236 answered with Question No. 234.
Building Regulations
Ceisteanna (237)
Steven Matthews
Ceist:237. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will report on the assessments that have been carried out by his Department in relation to building regulations and guidance for the construction of wheelchair-liveable homes; if his attention has been drawn to the need to make these guidelines clearer to help streamline the construction of new properties and adapting existing ones; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27024/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Building Regulations apply to the design and construction of all new buildings (including dwellings) and to certain works to existing buildings. They are subject to ongoing review in the interests of safety and the well-being of persons in the built environment and to ensure that due regard is taken of changes in construction techniques, technological progress and innovation.
The Building Regulations (Part M Amendment) Regulations 2010, and the accompanying Technical Guidance Document M – Access and Use (2010), which came into effect on 1 January 2012, set out the minimum statutory requirements that a building must achieve in respect of access and use.
The accompanying Technical Guidance Document M – Access and Use (2010), sets out the minimum statutory requirements that a building must achieve in respect of access. The TGDs are available on my Department’s website at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/78e67-technical-guidance-document-m-access-and-use/#current-edition
The requirements of Part M aim to ensure that regardless of age, size or disability:
- new buildings other than dwellings are accessible and usable;
- extensions to existing buildings other than dwellings are, where practicable, accessible and useable;
- material alterations to existing buildings other than dwellings increase the accessibility and usability of existing buildings, where practicable;
- certain changes of use to existing buildings other than dwellings increase the accessibility and usability of existing buildings where practicable; and
- new dwellings are visitable.
Part M aims to foster an inclusive approach to the design and construction of the built environment. While the Part M requirements may be regarded as a statutory minimum level of provision, the accompanying technical guidance encourages building owners and designers to have regard to the design philosophy of universal design and to consider making additional provisions where practicable and appropriate.
Building Regulations and the associated TGDs are subject to ongoing review in the interests of safety and the well-being of persons in the built environment and to ensure that due regard is taken of changes in construction techniques, technological progress and innovation. A number of reviews are ongoing at present including Part B Fire Safety, Part M (Changing Places Toilet) etc.
Since 2011 housing for disabled people has been addressed in a dedicated joint Strategy between the Department and the Department of Health. A new joint National Housing Strategy for Disabled People (NHSDP) 2022-2027 was launched on 14 January 2022.
The new Strategy sets out the vision for the cooperation and collaboration of Government Departments, state agencies and others in delivering housing and the related supports for disabled people over the next five years. This new Strategy will operate within the framework of Housing for All – A New Housing Plan for Ireland which is committed to ensuring access to good quality homes through a steady supply of housing in the right locations, with economic, social and environmental sustainability built into the system, including the aim to deliver appropriately designed and specified housing for disabled and older people in line with the vision and principles of universal design. Preparation of an Implementation Plan is already underway with a target for completion by the second quarter of 2022.
Local Authorities
Ceisteanna (238)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:238. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of private rented accommodation inspections that were carried out by all local authorities in each of the years 2018 to 2021 and to date in 2022; the number of inspections in which further enforcement action was taken in tabular form; the procedure for deeming that a property is unfit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27028/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019 specify requirements in relation to a range of matters, such as structural repair, sanitary facilities, heating, ventilation, natural light, fire safety and the safety of gas, oil and electrical installations. All landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that their rented properties comply with these regulations. Responsibility for the enforcement of the Regulations rests with the relevant local authority.
If a property is found to be non-compliant with the Regulations, it is a matter for the Local Authority to determine what action is necessary and appropriate, including the issuing of an Improvement Letter, the serving of Improvement Notice and Prohibition Notices, or further legal recourse.
Under sections 18A and 18B of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992, a housing authority may serve an Improvement Notice or Prohibition Notice, respectively, where a property is found to be non-compliant. Under Section 34 of that Act, any person who by act or omission contravenes the Regulations, fails to comply with an improvement notice, or re-lets a house in breach of a prohibition notice, will be guilty of an offence and will be liable, on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding €5,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or both. If the contravention, failure to comply or re-letting is continued after conviction, the person will be guilty of a further offence on every day on which the contravention, failure to comply or re-letting continues and for each such offence will be liable, on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding €400 per day.
To aid increased inspections of properties and ensure greater compliance with the Regulations, increased Exchequer funding has been made available to local authorities since 2018 to enable them to build inspection capacity, with payments based on the number of inspections undertaken. Significant progress was made across the sector. The number of inspections more than doubled from 19,645 in 2017 to 40,728 in 2019. However, given the need for inspectors to enter tenants’ homes, pandemic restrictions have greatly impacted on inspection activity since March 2020. The number of inspections undertaken in 2020 fell to 25,703 and 20,240 in 2021.
Housing for All sets a target for the inspection of rental properties, which is 25% of all private residential tenancies. My officials have written to all 31 local authority Chief Executives seeking detailed implementation plans, outlining their plans for 2022 with a clear focus on for example, how they intend to achieve their targets and the approach they plan to take to ensure proper and effective enforcement. If a property has been found to be non-compliant with the regulations, it is a matter for the local authority to determine what action is necessary and appropriate, including the issuing of an improvement letter, the serving of improvement or prohibition notices, or further legal recourse. My Department will work closely throughout the year with the sector to support the achievement of these targets, and ensure effective enforcement.
The number of private rental inspections undertaken, improvement letters issued and improvement and prohibition notices served in the years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and Quarter 1 of 2022 is set out in the table below:
|
Year |
Total Rental Inspections Carried Out |
Total Improvement Letters and Notices |
Total Improvement Letters Issued |
Total Improvement Notices Served |
Total Prohibition Notices Served |
|
2018 |
28,464 |
6,644 |
- |
- |
99 |
|
2019 |
40,728 |
- |
17,701 |
1,911 |
106 |
|
2020 |
25,703 |
- |
15,033 |
1,578 |
57 |
|
2021 |
20,240 |
- |
13,354 |
813 |
22 |
|
2022 – Q1 |
10,632 |
- |
6,575 |
381 |
18 |
Housing Provision
Ceisteanna (239)
Cian O'Callaghan
Ceist:239. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the persons or bodies that were the 31 industry experts that attended a workshop held with the Housing Agency in December 2021 to discuss the structure and criteria of the Croí Cónaithe cities fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27030/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Addressing the current housing shortage requires short, medium and long-term action to stimulate housing supply. The Croí Cónaithe (Cities) Scheme is one measure within Housing for All that will help to kick-start apartment developments that might not otherwise be developed.
On December 10th last, the Housing Agency held a stakeholder engagement workshop to gain feedback on the proposed Croí Cónaithe (Cities) Scheme with representatives from State Agencies, Local Authorities and representative bodies from the industry. Those organisations were-
|
National Development Finance Agency |
|
Property Industry Ireland |
|
Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland |
|
Dublin City Council |
|
Society Of Chartered Surveyors Ireland |
|
Irish Institutional Property |
Financial Services
Ceisteanna (240)
Niall Collins
Ceist:240. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if an applicant for a local authority mortgage for a self-build property can avail of the opt-out option for certification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27101/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Local Authority Home Loan (LAHL) is a Government backed mortgage for those on modest or low incomes who cannot get sufficient funding from commercial banks to purchase or build a home. It has been available nationwide from local authorities since 4 January 2022 for first-buyers and fresh start applicants. The loan can be used both for new and second-hand properties, or to self-build. It is the successor to the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan (RIHL).
Applications for a Local Authority Home Loan for the purposes of funding a self-build property will only be considered in circumstances where the security property in question is a new construction, i.e. properties that are part-built or otherwise commenced at the time of making a Local Authority Home Loan application will not be eligible for consideration.
Full compliance with the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 (SI 9 of 2014) is a requirement of the Local Authority Home Loan. The facility to opt out of statutory certification (allowed for in Building Control (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2015 (SI 365 of 2015) is not available to applicant(s).
The final decision on loan approval is a matter for the relevant local authority and its credit committee on a case-by-case basis. Decisions on all housing loan applications must be made in accordance with the statutory credit policy that underpins the scheme, in order to ensure prudence and consistency in approaches in the best interests of both borrowers and the lending local authorities.
Electoral Process
Ceisteanna (241)
Emer Higgins
Ceist:241. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his attention has been drawn by An Garda Síochána to the significant irregularities in the postal voting system in County Sligo in 2019; if so, the nature of those irregularities; and his plans to ensure that such irregularities cannot occur again in any local authority. [27103/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The primary role of my Department in electoral matters is to provide an appropriate policy and legislative framework for a modern and efficient electoral system. Within that framework, Returning Officers are responsible for all matters in connection with the actual conduct of elections and referendums, including the operation of postal voting arrangements.
Part IV of the Second Schedule to the European Parliament Elections Act 1997 and Part VII of the Local Elections Regulations 1995 provide for postal voting at European and local elections respectively.
Rule 117 of the Second Schedule of the European Parliament Elections Act 1997 and Article 107 of the Local Elections Regulations 1995 provide that it is an offence to interfere with or destroy postal ballot papers. Rule 147 of the Second Schedule of the European Parliament Elections Act 1997 and Article 121 of the Local Elections Regulations 1995 provide that a person who is present at the issue of postal ballot papers or present at the opening of postal ballot boxes shall maintain and aid in maintaining the secrecy of the ballot.
Local authorities are responsible for the compilation and maintaining of the electoral register, including the postal voters list. The electoral register and the process that underpins it has served this country well but we all recognise that it can be improved and modernised to bring about a more straightforward and streamlined process of registration that makes it easier for people to register to vote and update their details. The Programme for Government - Our Shared Future commits to a series of reforms including the modernisation of the electoral registration process. The Electoral Reform Bill 2022, which is currently progressing through the Oireachtas, includes provisions to modernise the electoral registration process. The provisions include additional tools for local authorities to update and maintain the register. These tools, which include the use of PPSNs in the process to facilitate identity data cross checks, combined with a simplified process for individuals to check and update their own information will improve the quality of data on the register and the overall integrity of the process. An annual report by the proposed Electoral Commission on the status and functioning of the register is also provided for, including any recommendations the Commission considers necessary to maintain or enhance the integrity of the process.
Housing Provision
Ceisteanna (242, 243)
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:242. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the extent to which the provision of utilities such as electricity and water to new houses is currently limiting progress in the construction sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27146/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraBernard Durkan
Ceist:243. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the extent, if known, to which delays in the provision of utilities such as power and water to various building sites appears to delay progress; if immediate steps will be taken to ensure that such issues are addressed forthwith; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27165/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 242 and 243 together.
My Department does not have responsibility for electricity supply and does not hold information in relation to water along the lines set out in the question. Since 1 January 2014, Irish Water has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local levels. The scope, prioritisation and progression of individual projects is a matter for Irish Water, and is approved through its own internal governance structures.
Irish Water is committed to supporting the delivery of housing including under ‘Housing for All and are providing my Department with updates containing key information on how they are supporting the housing plan by providing water services to new homes, key public services and businesses. Irish Water are supporting the delivery of ‘Housing for All’ through a number of actions, including the timely delivery of housing connections.
In this regard, to be of assistance, Irish Water has provided the following information in relation to 2021:
- Pre-connection enquiries: Irish Water gave positive responses to 2,962 pre-connection enquiries associated with 125,914 housing units. 115 enquiries associated with 252 housing units did not meet the criteria for approval
- Connection offers : Irish Water issued 4,515 connection offers in 2021, associated with 32,404 housing units. 170 connection offers, associated with 271 housing units, did not meet the criteria for approval.
- Connection agreements : Customers executed connection agreements for 3,365 offers, associated with 26,446 housing units.
- Connections : Irish Water completed 3,046 connections to water infrastructure associated with 18,417 housing units.
Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. The team can be contacted via email to oireachtasmembers@water.ie or by telephone on a dedicated number, 0818 578 578.
Question No. 243 answered with Question No. 242.
Passport Services
Ceisteanna (244, 259)
James Lawless
Ceist:244. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will examine and expedite a passport application for a child (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26984/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Michael Ring
Ceist:259. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport renewal will be dispatched in time for the travel plans of a family (details supplied) on Friday 27 May 2022 considering that this online application was received by the Passport Office on 23 April 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27154/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 244 and 259 together.
With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputies have enquired, the Passport Service has provided an update on the status of the passport application to the applicant.
Passport Services
Ceisteanna (245)
Pearse Doherty
Ceist:245. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if supporting documents for a passport application for a child (details supplied) were received by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27011/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
With regard to the specific application about which the Deputy had enquired, the Passport Service is reviewing the case and is direct contact with the applicant in relation to the documentation.
Passport Services
Ceisteanna (246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 254, 257, 258, 260)
Pearse Doherty
Ceist:246. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport application for a child (details supplied) in County Donegal that was submitted in March 2022 will be processed before the travel date of 15 June 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27012/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMichael Ring
Ceist:247. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue to a child (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that this application is a renewal application and has been with the Passport Office since 9 February 2022. [27025/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMichael Ring
Ceist:248. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in time for their travel plans. [27026/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Niamh Smyth
Ceist:249. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will review a passport renewal application by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27027/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Thomas Gould
Ceist:250. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the documents for the passport application of a child (details supplied) will be verified. [27045/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraNiamh Smyth
Ceist:254. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport application by a person (details supplied) will be urgently reviewed; and the status of the application. [27107/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraBernard Durkan
Ceist:257. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when passports will issue for persons (details supplied) who made applications several months ago and who are travelling on 6 June 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27148/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraPearse Doherty
Ceist:258. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if passport applications will be processed on time for siblings (details supplied) travelling on 14 June 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27153/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMichael Ring
Ceist:260. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue on time for a person (details supplied) in County Galway to travel in view of the fact that this application is with the Passport Office since 10 February 2022. [27176/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 248, 246, 247, 249, 250, 254, 257, 258 and 260 together.
With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputies have enquired, the Passport Service has issued passports to the applicants.