Written Answers Nos. 501-536
501. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the breakdown of the number of applicants for the basic income for the arts pilot scheme by application stream. [44032/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere were three categories under which applicants for the Basic Income for the Arts Pilot scheme could apply as follows:
1. Practising artists;
2. Creative Arts Workers (defined as someone who has a creative practice or whose creative work makes a key contribution to the interpretation or exhibition of the arts), or;
3. Recently Trained i.e. graduated with a relevant qualification in the past 5 years.
I am advised that 81.3% of applicants applied as practising artists, 11.14% applied as Creative Arts Workers and 7.56% as Recently Trained Applicants.
502. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she plans to weight the participants selected for the basic income for the arts pilot scheme proportional to the art forms of total applicants. [44033/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraOver 9,000 people applied for the basic income for the arts pilot scheme. Of those over 8,206 were eligible to be included in the selection process. As there are 2,000 places available on the scheme the sample was sufficiently large to ensure broad alignment with the eligible application population.
All applicants who evidenced their eligibility were included in the anonymised random selection, the resulting selected recipient and control group populations include representatives from every artform, age range, ethnic group and county, in percentages which are closely mapped to the application population across all demographics.
503. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media when her attention or that of the officials in her Department was drawn to the fact that the National Indoor Athletics Training Centre at Abbotstown was to be used for emergency refugee accommodation; if consideration had been given to the disruption that this decision would cause to clubs that depend on access to the facilities; the alternatives that are being put in place for those who normally train at Abbotstown; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44083/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraOver recent months, my officials and I have been engaging with Sport Ireland, along with the FAI, GAA and IRFU, to seek their assistance, on behalf of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, in providing emergency short term accommodation for people seeking humanitarian shelter in Ireland. The sporting organisations have responded positively to our request and have engaged with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
Officials from that Department have engaged directly with Sport Ireland regarding the use of the National Indoor Arena as emergency accommodation and, on Friday 2 September, Sport Ireland announced that it would be making the National Indoor Athletics Training Centre in the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena available for a period of up to six weeks to assist in this humanitarian effort.
While I understand that this will have a temporary impact on regular users of the facility, I am grateful for the support shown by the wider sporting community in making all those fleeing conflict feel welcome to Ireland. Sport Ireland has been in contact with all impacted users of the facility and remains available to answer queries from users who will be impacted over the next few weeks.
504. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will provide the most recent data on the level of Údarás na Gaeltachta-supported jobs by county; the number of additional jobs created since the formation of the Government, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44105/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that in order for them to fulfil their reporting & planning requirements, they collect employment figures once annually at the end of October.
Údarás report that at the end of 2021 there were 7,809 full-time jobs and 485 part-time jobs in Údarás na Gaeltachta supported companies, in comparison to 7,363 full-time jobs and 437 part-time jobs in 2020.
825 new full-time positions were created in Údarás na Gaeltachta client companies in 2021. When the number full-time jobs lost are accounted for, there was a net gain of 446 full time jobs on 2020.
427 new full-time positions were created in Údarás na Gaeltachta client companies in 2020. When the number full-time jobs lost are accounted for, there was a net lost of 481 full time jobs on 2019.
The table below provides a breakdown of full time employment figures by county. The figures for 2022 will be available in January 2023.
|
County |
2020 |
2021 |
Difference |
|
Donegal |
2,168 |
2,304 |
136 |
|
Mayo |
604 |
661 |
57 |
|
Galway |
2,955 |
3,180 |
225 |
|
Meath |
215 |
194 |
-21 |
|
Kerry |
611 |
617 |
6 |
|
Cork |
664 |
702 |
38 |
|
Waterford |
146 |
151 |
5 |
|
Total |
7,363 |
7,809 |
446 |
505. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aindrias Moynihan den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán cén líon fostaithe atá ag cliant-chomhlachtaí de chuid Údarás na Gaeltachta, i bhfoirm tábla do na contaetha éagsúla; cén líon fostaithe a cruthaíodh ó Shamhradh 2020; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [44355/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraLena gcuid riachtanais tuairiscithe agus pleanála a chomhlíonadh, tuigtear don Roinn go mbailíonn Údarás na Gaeltachta figiúirí fostaíochta uair amháin (ag deireadh mí Dheireadh Fómhair) gach bliain. Is do chuspóirí staidrimh agus pleanála a bhailítear an t-eolas seo.
Dar leis an Údarás, ag deireadh 2021, bhí 7,809 post lánaimseartha agus 485 post páirtaimseartha fostaithe i gcliantchomhlachtaí a fhaigheann tacaíocht ón eagraíoch i gcomparáid le 7,363 agus 437 post páirtaimseartha ag deireadh 2020.
Tuairiscítear gur cruthaíodh 825 post nua lánaimseartha i gcliantchomhlachtaí Údarás na Gaeltachta in 2021. Nuair a thógtar líon na bpost lánaimseartha a cailleadh san áireamh, bhí glanmhéadú de 446 post ar an mbliain roimhe sin i gceist.
Tá curtha in iúl ag an Údarás gur cruthaíodh 427 post nua lánaimseartha i gcliantchomhlachtaí Údarás na Gaeltachta in 2020. Nuair a thógtar líon na bpost lánaimseartha a cailleadh san áireamh, bhí glan laghdú de 481 post ar an mbliain roimhe sin i gceist.
Tugtear briseadh síos de réir contae ar an bhfostaíocht lánaimseartha sa tábla a leanas. Beidh figiúirí 2022 ar fáil in Eanáir 2023.
|
Contae |
2020 |
2021 |
Difríocht |
|
Dún na nGall |
2,168 |
2,304 |
136 |
|
Maigh Eo |
604 |
661 |
57 |
|
Gaillimh |
2,955 |
3,180 |
225 |
|
An Mhí |
215 |
194 |
-21 |
|
Ciarraí |
611 |
617 |
6 |
|
Corcaigh |
664 |
702 |
38 |
|
Port Láirge |
146 |
151 |
5 |
|
Iomlán |
7,363 |
7,809 |
446 |
506. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current interest rate charged on a local authority home loan; the way that it is adjusted as European Central Bank-sanctioned interest rates changes; and the equivalent monthly charges per €1,000 borrowed on a 30-year loan. [44205/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra507. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the extra charge on a local authority loan to cover mortgage protection; if this is subject to change; and the equivalent monthly charge per €1,000 borrowed on a 30-year loan. [44206/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 506 and 507 together.
The Local Authority Home Loan is a Government backed mortgage scheme 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.
Local authorities borrow from the Housing Finance Agency to finance their lending under the Local Authority Home Loan scheme. Following engagement with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, sanction for new lending of up to €250 million was secured for the scheme in 2022.
The rate of interest on a housing loan shall be such rate as may be fixed from time to time by the Minister, provided that the rate shall not be less than the rate at which money is lent to housing authorities by the Housing Finance Agency for the purpose of making such housing loans. As such, the interest rate is not directly linked to ECB refinancing rates; however, as the cost of finance to the HFA is determined by the cost of finance on international markets, the monetary policy decisions of the ECB do ultimately have an influence. Loans issued under the Local Authority Home Loan must be on a prudential basis so as to protect the financial interests of both borrowers and local authorities, which may result in interest rate changes for future funding tranches.
The local authority mortgage protection insurance scheme has applied to all house purchase loans approved by local authorities after 1 July 1986, including the Local Authority Home Loan Scheme scheme. Local authority mortgage protection insurance is currently charged at the rate of 0.5348%, this rate does not vary between local authorities.
The total interest rate charged to local authority borrowers, including the LA Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process Premium Fund as well as Mortgage Protection Insurance, brings the all-in cost of the new loans to:
- 3.3798% for loans with terms of up to 25 years, and
- 3.4798% for loans with terms of over 25 years and up to 30 years
Based on a €200,000 loan over 30 years, the average monthly repayment is €926.42 at an interest rate of 2.945% and inclusive of 0.5348% Mortgage Protection Insurance.
Further information on the Local Authority Home Loan Scheme can be found here: www.localauthorityhomeloan.ie
The most recent public procurement competition for the provision and administration of this MPI scheme was conducted by the Local Government Management Agency. The contract resulting from this open tender competition came into effect from 1 January 2022 and is due to expire on 31 December 2022. My Department will review the provision and administration of the MPI scheme prior to that date.
508. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the zoos that were inspected in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44334/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra509. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will make inspection reports on zoos available online; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44335/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 508 and 509 together.
My Department has responsibility for implementation of the European Communities (Licensing and Inspection of Zoos) Regulations 2003 which deal with the inspection, licensing and regulation of zoos. These Regulations give effect in the national context to the EU Zoo Directive.
There are no plans at present to make zoo inspection reports available online. However, the reports are made available on request and are also subject to the Freedom of Information process.
The table below lists the zoos and aquaria inspected by my Department in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Inspections for 2022 will resume later this month.
Table 1: Zoos inspected by Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage 2020 - 2022
|
ZOO INSPECTED |
COUNTY |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
|
NATIONAL SEALIFE CENTRE |
CO WICKLOW |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
SECRET VALLEY |
CO WEXFORD |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
TROPICAL WORLD |
CO DONEGAL |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
GALWAY ATLANTAQUARIA |
CO GALWAY |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
DUBLIN ZOO |
CO DUBLIN |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
TAYTO PARK |
CO MEATH |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
FOTA WILDLIFE PARK |
CO CORK |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
STONEHALL VISITOR FARM |
CO LIMERICK |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
DINGLE OCEAN WORLD |
CO KERRY |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
NATIONAL REPTILE ZOO |
CO KILKENNY |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
ARDMORE OPEN FARM |
CO WATERFORD |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
MOHER HILL FARM |
CO CLARE |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
CASTLE ADVENTURE OPEN FARM |
CO DONEGAL |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
ERRIGAL OPEN FARM |
CO DONEGAL |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
KILDARE FARM FOODS |
CO KILDARE |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
GRAUNE PET FARM |
CO MAYO |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
CLONFERT PET FARM |
CO KILDARE |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
WILD ENCOUNTERS |
CO LIMERICK |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
RAVEN HAVEN AVIARIES |
CO LAOIS |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
DAVES JUNGLE |
CO CARLOW |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
WILD IRELAND |
CO DONEGAL |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
THE ANIMAL ROAD SHOW |
CO KERRY |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
ANIMAL MAGIC |
CO LIMERICK |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
BYRNES MOBILE ZOO |
CO DONEGAL |
YES |
YES |
CLOSED |
|
ACHILL EXPERIENCE |
CO MAYO |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
NATIONAL BIRD OF PREY CENTRE |
CO WICKLOW |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
EAGLES FLYING |
CO SLIGO |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
BURREN BIRDS OF PREY (ALIWEE) |
CO CLARE |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
DROMOLAND CASTLE |
CO CLARE |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
ADARE MANOR |
CO LIMERICK |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
TROBOLGAN BIRD OF PREY CENTRE |
CO CORK |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
MAYFIELD BIRDS OF PREY |
CO WATERFORD |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
KINGDOM FALCONRY |
CO KERRY |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
DUBLIN FALCONRY |
CO DUBLIN |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
FALCONRY IRELAND |
CO WICKLOW |
YES |
CLOSED |
CLOSED |
|
IRELANDS SCHOOL OF FALCONRY(ASHFORD CASTLE) |
CO MAYO |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
IRISH NATIONAL HERITAGE CENTRE |
CO WEXFORD |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
BIRDS OF PREY NAVAN |
CO MEATH |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
NEWGRANGE FALCONRY |
CO MEATH |
YES |
YES |
CLOSED |
|
KILLARNEY FALCONRY |
CO KERRY |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
RING OF KERRY FALCONRY |
CO KERRY |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
MIDLANDS FALCONRY(CENTRE PARCS) |
CO LONGFORD |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
FALCONRY KERRY |
CO KERRY |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
WELLS HOUSE |
CO WEXFORD |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
NEWPARK HOTEL |
CO KILKENNY |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
IRISH SEAL SANTUARY |
CO WEXFORD |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
LEAHYS OPEN FARM |
CO CORK |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
COPPER COAST MINI FARM |
CO WATERFORD |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
SHRULE PET FARM |
CO WEXFORD |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
BUTTERFLY FARM MALAHIDE CASTLE |
CO DUBLIN |
YES |
YES |
YES |
|
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION IRELAND |
CO MEATH |
|
YES |
CLOSED |
|
PARSONS GREEN |
CO TIPPERARY |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
NORE VALLEY |
CO KILKENNY |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
OAK COTTAGE |
CO KILKENNY |
YES |
YES |
INSPECTION PENDING |
|
MOUNT FALCON |
CO MAYO |
|
|
YES (NEW) |
510. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will confirm whether his Department consulted the European Commission on all amendments to the Electoral Reform Bill 2022, including the last amendments introduced in Seanad Éireann in July 2022, including the new Part V of the Bill on disinformation. [41935/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provisions in Parts 4 and 5 of the Electoral Reform Act 2022 were formally notified in draft form to the European Commission in accordance with the requirements of Directive (EU) 2015/1535 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 September 2015 laying down a procedure for the provision of information in the field of technical regulations and of rules on Information Society services (codification).
This notification procedure (known as Technical Regulation Information System or TRIS) aims to prevent the creation of barriers to trade in the internal market before they materialise. Under the notification procedure, a 90 day standstill period applies to the draft instrument following notification to the Commission to allow for the consideration of any relevant observations/comments received from the European Commission, Member States and other affected stakeholders.
During the concluding Dáil debate on the Bill on 13 July 2022, I highlighted that both Parts 4 and 5 of the Bill had been notified to the European Commission in order to provide an opportunity for Commission, Member States and other affected stakeholders to make comments or observations on the relevant provisions in the Bill.
In addition, I stressed that any comments or observations that might arise from the Commission from this formal consultative process could be considered in advance of the commencement of Parts 4 and 5 both of which are subject to commencement orders under section 1(5) of the Act.
511. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if, given the high prices of regular family homes and the lack of such properties, the new first-time-buyers scheme will be extended in bands to address the high threshold prices and in scope to also include second-hand homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41955/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe new First Home Scheme, launched on 7 July 2022, supports first-time buyers in purchasing new build houses and apartments in the private market through the use of an equity share model. The Scheme uses regional price ceilings based primarily on the median prices of new-build homes purchased by first-time buyers. This is to temper any inflationary pressures, to target support at purchases in the lower part of the price distribution in each area, and to encourage additional new build housing supply at this price level. All price ceilings for the First Home Scheme are available on the scheme website, www.firsthomescheme.ie.
The setting of the initial First Home Scheme price ceilings has been informed primarily by an analysis of official published data from the Central Statistics Office, specifically the Residential Property Price Index (RPPI), together with a review of current market data and sales prices for new homes marketed at first-time buyers. Any system of geographically-based price ceilings will require defined borders, and in the case of the monthly RPPI reports the most robust and informative data is broken down at the local authority level. When considered overall, the system will broadly reflect price trends and represent a clear, easily understandable method for setting price ceilings.
The First Home Scheme Ireland Designated Activity Company now holds responsibility for maintaining, reviewing, and updating the price ceilings. The scheme has confirmed that a review of ceilings will be undertaken after six months of operation and periodically thereafter, which will ensure that the ceilings allow the scheme to deliver on its underlying objectives.
By supporting the purchase of new homes, the First Home Scheme is focused on contributing to the increase of housing supply in general, and of suitable homes for first-time buyers in particular, by building confidence in realisable demand even in the context of increasing development costs. It is only by an increase in the number of new homes that the current under-supply in the market can be addressed.
Separately, to support affordability, the Help to Buy scheme is available to First Time Buyers on new properties and currently provides up to €30,000 or a max of 10% of the purchase value of a new home.
One option already available to support the purchase of second-hand homes is the Local Authority Home Loan. This was introduced under Housing for All as a successor to the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan. The new Local Authority Home Loan launched on 4 January 2022 and has a lower interest rate and higher income eligibility than previously applied. The Local Authority Home Loan supports first-time buyers purchasing new or second-hand homes, as well as funding self-builds. More details on the Local Authority Home Loan scheme are available at: localauthorityhomeloan.ie/.
512. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the National Parks and Wildlife Service will schedule works (details supplied) for completion in September 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42015/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe works in question and the necessary environmental screening are under active consideration by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department and I have asked that this case be prioritised for completion in the coming weeks.
513. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will address a matter (details supplied) in relation to derelict houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42016/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra526. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of vacant and derelict houses estimated to exist in the countryside outside of towns and villages of over 500 people; if he intends creating a new scheme to provide grants of up to €30,000 for the refurbishment of vacant houses in the countryside, as first homes for applicants and €50,000 for the refurbishment of derelict houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42235/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra658. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will adjust the Croí Cónaithe towns fund scheme to permit housing outside of towns or villages to be eligible for the scheme. [43914/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 513, 526 and 658 together.
My Department is currently reviewing additional opportunities to harness vacancy data. This will include working with the Vacant Homes Officer (VHO) in each local authority to monitor and assess vacancy data locally, including potentially through field based surveys. This will add to data sources on vacancy, including the recent data provided through the preliminary analysis of the Local Property Tax (LPT) 2022 and Census 2022, all of which informs development of policy to address vacancy.
On the 14 July, my Department launched the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. The fund is initially focused on supporting refurbishment of vacant homes in regional towns and villages. The Fund is being delivered by local authorities, and will provide new choices for people to live in towns and villages in Ireland, initially through the provision of a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, with priority given to areas where the level of vacancy or dereliction is high.
The Fund will benefit those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence and become part of the community in the area. This supports the development of town centres that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit, while also functioning as the service, social, cultural and recreational hub for the local community, key objectives in the National Planning Framework and the Town Centre First Policy, launched in February 2022.
A grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 is available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as residential heretofore. Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €30,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 will be available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000.
There are over 500 towns and villages in Ireland with a population of over 400 people. It is intended that the Crói Cónaithe Fund could potentially apply in all such towns, and also to some smaller villages, which may not be defined as towns or villages for the purposes of CSO Census mapping but with sufficient provision of services and amenities and for example, are walkable to town/village centre along footpaths primarily.
Each local authority should prioritise consideration of applications in town/village locations based on the following criteria:
- the overall levels of vacancy and dereliction within the town or village;
- alignment with policies of the relevant development plan including areas/objectives identified for regeneration;
- the role that the Fund might play as part of wider town regeneration particularly in the light of emerging Town Centre First Plans and integration with other committed regeneration funding.
The Fund, is targeted to deliver some 2,000 homes by 2025. Data will be gathered on the operation of the initiative from the outset and will be kept under ongoing review by my Department. The question of extension of the fund to vacant or derelict properties other than those encompassed by the scheme at present will form part of the ongoing review of the scheme.
514. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will amend the rules of the vacant property refurbishment grant to include vacant and derelict houses in rural areas with a population of less than 400; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42054/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra560. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the way that the boundaries of towns and villages are defined under the Croí Cónaithe scheme where grants are available to refurbish vacant and derelict houses; the reason the scheme is limited to towns and villages and not available for houses in the countryside; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42732/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra582. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the towns and villages in each county that are actually included as eligible for the Croí Cónaithe towns fund vacant property refurbishment grant scheme, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43075/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra586. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason smaller villages have been excluded from the Croí Cónaithe fund; his views on whether this fund discriminates against rural areas; if he plans to incentivise the refurbishment of the many derelict properties in rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43081/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 514, 560, 582 and 586 together.
On the 14 July, my Department launched the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. The fund is initially focused on supporting refurbishment of vacant homes in regional towns and villages. The Fund is being delivered by local authorities, and will provide new choices for people to live in towns and villages in Ireland, initially through the provision of a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, with priority given to areas where the level of vacancy or dereliction is high.
The Fund will benefit those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence. This supports the development of town and village centres that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit, while also functioning as the service, social, cultural and recreational hub for the local community, key objectives in the National Planning Framework and the Town Centre First Policy, launched in February 2022.
A grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 will be available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as residential heretofore. Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €30,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 will be available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000.
There are over 500 towns and villages in Ireland with a population of over 400 people. It is intended that the Crói Cónaithe Fund could potentially apply in all such towns, and also to some smaller villages, which may not be defined as towns or villages for the purposes of the CSO Census mapping of vacant homes but with sufficient provision of services and amenities and for example, be walkable to town/village centre along footpaths primarily. Each local authority should prioritise consideration of applications in town/village locations based on the following criteria:
- the overall levels of vacancy and dereliction within the town or village;
- alignment with policies of the relevant development plan including areas/objectives identified for regeneration;
- the role that the Fund might play as part of wider town regeneration particularly in the light of emerging Town Centre First Plans and integration with other committed regeneration funding.
Applications are to be made to the Vacant Homes Officer (VHO) in the relevant local authority. The VHO can provide further advice and information in respect of the fund and the application process.
The Fund, is targeted to deliver some 2,000 homes by 2025. Data will be gathered on the operation of the initiative from the outset and will be kept under ongoing review by my Department. The question of extension of the fund to vacant or derelict properties other than those encompassed by the scheme at present will form part of the ongoing review of the scheme.
515. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide funding for South Dublin County Council to reopen the caravan loan scheme given that SDCC had to prioritise the loans provided due to the high volume of applicants; if he agrees that this proves the need for the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42055/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra581. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the caravan loan scheme for Traveller families will commence in local authorities across the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43025/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 515 and 581 together.
The Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998 provides that the role of my Department is to ensure that there are adequate structures and supports in place to assist housing authorities in providing accommodation for Travellers, including a national framework of policy, legislation and funding.
My Department recently issued a circular to all local authorities outlining details of the extended pilot Caravan Loan Scheme which is now in operation in local authorities until the end of 2022.
516. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will report on the progress with regard to fixed-track ceiling hoists being funded under local authority housing grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42074/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra517. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will report on the number of meetings his Department had with the Department of Health and-or the HSE in 2022 to discuss funding and the provision of fixed-track ceiling hoists under a grant scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42075/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 516 and 517 together.
The Housing Adaptation Grant for Older People and People with a Disability scheme is underpinned by secondary legislation. The provisions of Regulation 7 of the Housing (Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability), Regulations 2007 set out the types of mobility aids that the grant can be used for, including accessible showers, access ramps, grab rails, stair lifts and other minor works to facilitate the mobility needs of a member of a household. The funding of fixed track hoists are not provided for under the scheme.
My Department is continuing to engage with the Department of Health and the HSE on this issue. Three meetings have taken place and a further meeting is scheduled shortly, with the objective of reaching a suitable resolution on the funding of hoists as soon as possible.
518. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will review the cap of €250,000 for County Cavan as part of the first home buyer's scheme; if he will review a case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42117/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe First Home Scheme, launched on 7 July 2022, supports first-time buyers in purchasing new houses and apartments in the private market through the use of an equity share model. The Scheme uses regional price ceilings based primarily on the median prices of new-build homes purchased by first-time buyers. This is to temper any inflationary pressures, to target support at the lower part of the price distribution in each area, and to encourage additional housing supply at this price level. The ceiling for Cavan has been initially set at €250,000, and that for Monaghan at €300,000. All the price ceilings for the First Home Scheme are available on the scheme website, www.firsthomescheme.ie.
The setting of these initial First Home Scheme price ceilings has been informed primarily by an analysis of published data from the Central Statistics Office, specifically the Residential Property Price Index (RPPI), together with a review of current market data and sales prices for new homes marketed at first-time buyers. Any system of geographically-based price ceilings will necessarily require defined borders, and in the case of the monthly RPPI reports the most robust and informative data is broken down at the local authority level. When considered overall, the system will broadly reflect price trends and represent a clear, easily understandable method for setting appropriate price ceilings.
The First Home Scheme Ireland Designated Activity Company now holds responsibility for maintaining, reviewing, and updating the price ceilings. The scheme has confirmed that a review of ceilings will be undertaken after six months of operation and periodically thereafter, which will ensure that the ceilings allow the scheme to deliver on its underlying objectives.
519. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will extend the recent amendment to increase the single HAP rate to the couples' rate to existing HAP tenancies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42124/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder Housing for All, my Department was tasked with undertaking an analytical exercise to examine whether an increase in the level of discretion available to Local Authorities under the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) is required. The Housing Agency undertook to carry out this analytical exercise on behalf of the Department to better understand what level of discretion should be made available to Local Authorities under HAP to maintain adequate levels of support.
Following receipt and analysis of this review, I, in cooperation with Government colleagues and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, have now approved an increase in the HAP discretion rate from 20% to 35% and for new tenancies to extend the couple’s rate to single person households. This will secure more tenancies and prevent new entries to homelessness. Both these measures came into effect from 11 July 2022.
The review identifies that the household type with the largest proportion of tenancies in receipt of discretion are single person households. In addition, these households are on average among those requiring the highest levels of discretion. To further assist this cohort, local authorities may apply a couple rate to a new single person tenancy, where required. This additional measure specifically addresses the challenges experienced by single person households and the fact that both single and couple households have a one-bed need.
Recognising that newer tenancies are at a higher cost than those tenancies already in place, this measure will apply to new tenancies only. Single person tenancies already in place may request a rent review, with local authorities now in a position to amend the level of discretion up to 35% where required.
520. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to Parliamentary Question No. 760 of 26 July 2022, if he will provide the number of houses bought by each council for the amounts listed in the table; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42146/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity. This includes data on acquisitions by local authorities. This data is available to Quarter 1 2022, and is published on the statistics page of my Department’s website, at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/
The statistics for Quarter 2 are being collated and will be available in due course.
521. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of part V homes purchased by each local authority over the past two years; the average cost of each home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42163/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity. This includes data on Part V delivery per local authority, which is available on the statistics page of my Department’s website, at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/.
Cost information on the delivery of social homes through the various construction streams is collated by my Department at development/project level, rather than at individual housing unit level. The cost of constructing new homes is dependent on a range of variables, including location, scale of the development and the size and type of the homes involved. The table below sets out the average cost to the exchequer in 2020 and 2021 of Part V social housing delivery by local authority.
|
LA |
Average Cost Part V 2020 |
Average Cost Part V 2021 |
|
Carlow |
|
€239,862 |
|
Cavan |
€86,100 |
|
|
Clare |
|
|
|
Cork City |
€272,106 |
€274,465 |
|
Cork County |
€228,002 |
€212,019 |
|
DLR |
€317,554 |
€290,544 |
|
Donegal |
€192,444 |
|
|
Dublin City |
€202,125 |
€374,527 |
|
Fingal |
€224,229 |
€251,876 |
|
Galway City |
|
|
|
Galway County |
€196,495 |
€252,782 |
|
Kerry |
€162,087 |
|
|
Kildare |
€241,878 |
€259,470 |
|
Kilkenny |
€204,395 |
€234,388 |
|
Laois |
€207,772 |
|
|
Leitrim |
|
|
|
Limerick |
€258,602 |
€255,702 |
|
Longford |
|
|
|
Louth |
€244,686 |
€232,822 |
|
Mayo |
|
|
|
Meath |
€230,600 |
€254,082 |
|
Monaghan |
€227,166 |
|
|
Offaly |
€203,572 |
€246,754 |
|
Roscommon |
|
|
|
Sligo |
|
|
|
South Dublin |
€256,043 |
€305,609 |
|
Tipperary |
€194,725 |
€248,284 |
|
Waterford |
€194,501 |
€234,756 |
|
Westmeath |
€230,949 |
€250,432 |
|
Wexford |
€210,261 |
|
|
Wicklow |
€223,152 |
€295,498 |
The information above is based on the financial information available to my Department. Delivery does not necessarily occur in the year of approval or spend.
Agreement on Part V arrangements is a matter for the local authorities. In some cases the Part V average cost is affected by delivery of homes that were subject to agreements prior to the current Part V arrangements. Complete details of Part V arrangements are available from the local authorities. It should be noted that with some Part V units, while recorded as delivered in 2020/2021, have not had costs claimed or recouped as yet and so are excluded from the average costs shown.
522. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the work that his Department has undertaken on reform of the electoral system for Seanad Éireann vocational panels from the period December 2020 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42168/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government – Our Shared Future - sets out a number of commitments on electoral reform. These commitments are the Government’s immediate goals in terms of electoral reform and have been prioritised by way of the Electoral Reform Act 2022.
The Electoral Reform Act 2022, which was enacted in July, provides for a significant body of reform including the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission - An Coimisiún Toghcháin, the modernisation of the electoral registration process, the regulation of online political advertising during electoral events, and amendments to electoral law which will assist in the holding of electoral events if Covid-19 restrictions are in place.
Furthermore, this Act also provides for amendments to the Electoral Act 1997 in respect of political donations and accounts; same-day island voting at electoral events; clarification for political parties on lottery licence applications in support of their fund-raising activities; and a regulatory framework to protect the integrity of elections and referendums against online disinformation, online misinformation and manipulative or inauthentic behaviour online.
While the Programme for Government - Our Shared Future does not include a commitment for Seanad reform, it is important to note that an Coimisiún Toghcháin will hold a research and advisory function and, with the establishment of an Coimisiún, we will now have an independent statutory body which can made recommendations and provide advice regarding electoral matters.
523. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when he will publish the full report into An Bord Pleanála that he received on 27 July 2022. [42192/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI received the Report into the management of conflicts of interest and relevant disclosures by the Deputy Chairperson of An Bord Pleanála in relation to certain Decisions of that Board from Mr. Remy Farrell on the 27th of July 2022. On the 15th of August 2022, on the advice of the Attorney General, I referred the report to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), An Garda Síochána (AGS) and the Standards in Public Office (SIPO).
The DPP has asked that the report would not be published until such time as An Garda Síochána have completed their investigation into this matter and a decision has been made in relation to any possible prosecution.
524. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide information on the proposed grant for refurbishing derelict properties to be announced in September 2022; if a person is eligible for the grant if they applied and obtained a mortgage before the grant is open for applications in September (details supplied); if a person can still apply for the grant at a later date if they have already drawn down on their mortgage and have commenced work; if this grant will be open to those who are already existing home owners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42207/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn the 14 July, my Department launched the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. The fund is initially focused on supporting refurbishment of vacant homes in regional towns and villages. The Fund is being delivered by local authorities, and provides new choices for people to live in towns and villages in Ireland, initially through the provision of a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, with priority given to areas where the level of vacancy or dereliction is high.
A grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 is available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as residential heretofore. Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €30,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 is available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000.
Properties can have been purchased, with mortgage drawn down prior to the launch of this fund (14 July 2022), however they must be vacant for 2 years or more prior to application.
Applications must be made to the relevant local authority prior to the works for which the application is made commencing. Works already commenced cannot be applied for. The local authority will arrange for suitable technical staff to visit the property to assess the projected costs of the work proposed. The grant will be paid based on vouched expenditure following a final inspection by the local authority.
The scheme will be kept under ongoing review by my Department.
525. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the procedure for a homeowner whose building is affected by mica or pyrite; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42209/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing on from the Government decision of the 30 November 2021 in respect of the enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant scheme, the Government approved the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Bill 2022 on 21 June and the Bill passed through both Houses of the Oireachtas and was subsequently signed into law by the President.
The purpose of this Act is to implement and give legislative underpinning to a series of measures to improve and enhance the scheme as agreed by Government on 30 November 2021. Full details can be found at www.gov.ie/en/press-release/328d7-minister-obrien-welcomes-progress-on-enhanced-defective-concrete-blocks-grant-scheme/. This new and enhanced scheme will be rolled out when the necessary regulations, forms and guidance documentation have been put in place. This work is being prioritised and it is intended to be in a position to open the new scheme for applications before the end of the year. The new scheme will be available to homeowners in Donegal, Mayo, Clare and Limerick.
Pending the rollout of the new scheme, the current scheme, which is only open to homeowners in Donegal and Mayo, remains operational and the relevant local authority has responsibility for the detailed administration of the scheme. Any queries relating to the current scheme should be addressed directly to the local authority.
The Pyrite Remediation Scheme is a separate scheme and applies only to dwellings affected by significant damage attributable to pyritic heave consequent on the presence of reactive pyrite in the subfloor hardcore material. The full conditions for eligibility under the scheme are set out in the scheme which is available on the Board’s website, www.pyriteboard.ie.
527. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide a tabular report on the new housing units delivered by both Clare County Council and approved housing bodies in County Clare over the past five years, including their locations, house, apartment type and cost of delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42242/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity in all local authorities including Clare. This data is available until the end of Quarter 1 2022 and is published on the statistics page of my Department’s website, at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/ .
My Department also publishes the Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR). The CSR provides details of social housing developments and their location, that have been completed, are under construction or are progressing through the various stages of the design and tender processes. The most recent publication was for Quarter 1 2022. All Construction Status Reports are available at the following link: gov.ie - Social Housing Construction Projects - Status Reports (www.gov.ie)
The tables below provide a breakdown of Clare's new build social housing by the funding programmes utilised.
Social Housing Capital Investment Programme
|
- |
2021 |
2020 |
2019 |
2018 |
2017 |
|
Homes Delivered |
4 |
34 |
25 |
5 |
0 |
|
Average Cost per Home |
€233,761 |
€266,124 |
€262,709 |
€218,954 |
My Department does not hold details on the breakdown of houses and apartments for the period 2017-2020. The local authority may be able to provide this information. The four homes delivered in 2021 were all houses.
Capital Assistance Scheme
|
- |
2021 |
2020 |
2019 |
2018 |
2017 |
|
Homes Delivered |
4 |
15 |
8 |
8 |
0 |
|
Home Type |
1 x 4 bed Group Home |
15 Houses |
2 x 4 bed Group Home |
2 x 4 bed Group Home |
|
|
Average Cost Per Home |
€116,188 |
€216,796 |
€95,818 |
€125,898 |
|
Capital Advance Leasing Facility
|
- |
2021 |
2020 |
2019 |
2018 |
2017 |
|
Homes Delivered |
16 |
37 |
52 |
33 |
27 |
|
Home type |
16 houses |
37 houses |
18 apartments 34 houses |
10 apartments 23 houses |
27 houses |
|
Average CALF amount per home |
€65,744.37 |
€61,766.88 |
€51,425.26 |
€28,929.07 |
€37,499.86 |
Public Private Partnerships
In addition, a Public Private Partnership project in Shannon East, County Clare delivered 51 units in 2021, as part of Bundle 2 of the Social Housing Public Private Partnership (PPP) Programme. Bundle 2 delivered 465 units across six local authority areas.
The estimated full value of Bundle 2 of the Social Housing PPP contracts in nominal terms is €253 million (figure is exclusive of VAT and includes a forecast of inflation). The duration of the contract is the construction period plus a 25-year operating period. This PPP Programme is being delivered through the ‘availability’-based PPP model. Under this type of contract, the PPP project company, as the private partner, designs, builds, finances, maintains and operates public buildings on sites provided by the State, in this case through the local authority. Payment is made by the State only once construction of the buildings is complete and the units are ready to house tenants. The payment comprises a monthly ‘availability’ and performance-based payment (or unitary charge) made over the term of the 25-year operating period, which incorporates all costs under the contract, including construction, the upkeep and maintenance of the developments, tenancy management services, financing costs and inflation.
528. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he intends to expand the vacant property refurbishment grant to houses in rural areas or whether he intends to provide for a new grant scheme for vacant and derelict houses outside of towns and villages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42262/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra583. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if there are plans to extend the Croí Cónaithe towns fund to include rural properties outside towns and villages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43077/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra585. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he plans to introduce a Croí Cónaithe fund for rural areas, considering the number of vacant or derelict properties in rural locations that are not eligible for the current schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43080/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 528, 583 and 585 together.
On the 14 July, my Department launched the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. The fund is initially focused on supporting refurbishment of vacant homes in regional towns and villages. The Fund is being delivered by local authorities, and will provide new choices for people to live in towns and villages in Ireland, initially through the provision of a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, with priority given to areas where the level of vacancy or dereliction is high.
The Fund will benefit those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence and become part of the community in the area. This supports the development of town centres that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit, while also functioning as the service, social, cultural and recreational hub for the local community, key objectives in the National Planning Framework and the Town Centre First Policy, launched in February 2022..
A grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 will be available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as residential heretofore. Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €30,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 will be available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000.
There are over 500 towns and villages in Ireland with a population of over 400 people. It is intended that the Crói Cónaithe Fund could potentially apply in all such towns, and also to some smaller villages, which may not be defined as towns or villages for the purposes of CSO Census mapping but with sufficient provision of services and amenities and for example, be walkable to town/village centre along footpaths primarily.
Each local authority should prioritise consideration of applications in town/village locations based on the following criteria:
- the overall levels of vacancy and dereliction within the town or village;
- alignment with policies of the relevant development plan including areas/objectives identified for regeneration;
- the role that the Fund might play as part of wider town regeneration particularly in the light of emerging Town Centre First Plans and integration with other committed regeneration funding.
The Fund, is targeted to deliver some 2,000 homes by 2025. Data will be gathered on the operation of the initiative from the outset and will be kept under ongoing review by my Department. The question of extension of the fund to vacant or derelict properties other than those encompassed by the scheme at present will form part of the ongoing review of the scheme.
529. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide a report on progress in relation to the new €50 million scheme established under the national development plan to target wastewater collection and treatment needs of villages and settlements without access to public wastewater services indicating when he expects an outcome to the application process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42290/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI announced funding on 28 April 2022 for a new funding measure under the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme 2022-2025, for the Waste Water Collection and Treatment needs of Villages and Settlements that do not have access to public waste water services. Details of the announcement can be found at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/press-release/f2fa6-minister-obrien-announces-50-million-in-funding-to-improve-the-waste-water-needs-of-rural-villages/
An allocation of €50 million has been committed under the National Development Plan for the new measure, which will focus on areas of most need based on housing and environmental criteria. It is expected that at least ten demonstration projects will be supported under this first round of funding. The demonstration project model will allow for the development of appropriate longer-term strategies, protocols and better inform future funding needs for the progressive development of public waste water collection and treatment infrastructure in villages/settlements that are currently without these services.
Details of the scheme, including terms and conditions and the relevant accompanying documents are available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/a524a-group-water-schemes-and-rural-water-issues/#waste-water-collection-and-treatment-needs-for-villages-and-settlements-without-access-to-public-waste-water-services.
It is now open to all local authorities to submit applications for funding and I would strongly encourage them to do so. Completed applications should be submitted in advance of the deadline of 15 September 2022.
An Expert Panel is in place to support the evaluation process. In addition to providing an expert perspective, the Panel brings independence, openness and transparency to the bids evaluation process which is done on a national prioritised basis. The Expert Panel’s membership includes Departmental, stakeholder and independent representation.
The Expert Panel will make recommendations on the suitability of projects for funding. This recommendation will be based on a detailed examination of all the valid proposals received using the criteria set out in the Framework document issued to local authorities. It is expected that an announcement on approvals and allocations will be made once that process has concluded.
530. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide details on discussions which have taken place between his Department and Louth County Council in respect of progressing the northern cross route project under the urban regeneration development fund since its most recent unsuccessful appeal due to its significant transport infrastructure related elements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42321/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Port Access Northern Cross Route (PANCR) proposal, submitted by Louth County Council, was unsuccessful under both Call 1 and Call 2 of the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF).
As explained to the Council following their unsuccessful application, the focus of the second call for proposals under the URDF was on supporting integrated development proposals that targeted regeneration and redevelopment within the existing footprint of the urban area in question. While there was no issue with the quality of the application submitted by Louth County Council unfortunately the PANCR proposal does not align sufficiently with the core objectives of the URDF and so was not approved for URDF support.
No further meetings or discussions have taken place recently between my department and Louth County Council on this matter. Any plans for the future advancement of the PANCR proposal is a matter for Louth County Council to progress.
However, acknowledging the strategic regional importance of Drogheda, my officials are available to assist and support Louth County Council in its consideration and development of alternative integrated development proposals for the Town, which might attract URDF support in the future.
531. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the expected timeline for when Louth County Council will conclude the site acquisition for the new and much needed Dunleer fire station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42336/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of fire station premises, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under the Fire Services Acts, 1981 and 2003. My Department supports the fire authorities through setting general policy, providing a central training programme, issuing guidance on operational and other related matters and providing capital funding for equipment and priority infrastructural projects.
In December 2020 I announced a new Fire Services Capital Programme for the period 2021-2025, with a funding allocation of €61m. Following extensive engagement with fire authorities, a number of proposals for station works etc. were received. The proposals were evaluated and prioritised on the basis of the:
- Area Risk Categorisation of the fire station (based on criteria such as population, fire risks, etc..);
- established Health and Safety needs;
- state of development of the project (has a site been acquired, etc.?); and
- value for money offered by the proposal.
This Programme will see six new fire stations built, continued support for the construction of a further 12 new fire stations, nine fire station refurbishments as well as the allocation of 35 new fire engines. In order to maximise the available Capital Programme funding, my Department re-assesses the status of projects in the Programme on an annual basis, and some flexibility is normally available to advance projects that are ready and that offer best value-for-money taking account of the state of readiness of projects more generally.
A new fire station at Dunleer is provided for in this Capital Programme. Louth County Council has indicated that Dunleer is their number one fire station priority. Following examination of the proposal, approval in principle for this project issued on 25 June 2021, along with approval for the Council to appoint a design team. I understand that a potential site has been identified by the Council. On receipt of a detailed design brief, my Department will continue to work with Louth County Council to progress the Dunleer fire station project.
532. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide details of recent meetings with Louth County Council and-or his Department to progress the Narrow Water Bridge project; the current status of the project; the funding that has been provided to date; the projected overall cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42341/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Narrow Water Bridge is a cross-border project led by Louth County Council and supported by the Shared Island Fund, which is designed to fund strategic north-south projects that implement the commitments and objectives on Shared Island set out in the Programme for Government. The bridge will connect Cornamucklagh near Omeath, Co Louth with Narrow Water near Warrenpoint, Co Down.
Following a Government decision in June 2021, An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin announced the approval of an initial €3m in funding from the Shared Island Fund to take the project forward to tender stage. Work is underway in this regard, led by Louth County Council and overseen by my Department in this jurisdiction, and the Department of Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. The Government is committed in its support for this important project, with funding for future years to be determined once firm costings are available and the tender development process has been completed.
To date there have been nine meetings of the Narrow Water Bridge Sub Group to progress this project and another is planned for September. The last meeting of the North South (NS) Senior Officials Group (SOG) on New Decade New Approach (NDNA) for Infrastructure and Investment was in June 2022, the next meeting of this group is also scheduled for September 2022.
533. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide a comprehensive update and current position regarding drinking water (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42358/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraGroup water schemes are independent community-owned enterprises and are an important means of providing piped water to rural areas where no such supply exists.
In the interest of public health, Kildare County Council, as the supervisory authority under the Drinking Water Regulations for private water supplies, issued a ‘Do Not Consume Notice’ to the Group Water Scheme referred to in the question earlier this year. The notice prohibits the use of the water supply for either drinking purposes or for the preparation of food. As this is a private supply, primary responsibility for its resolution rests with the management of the supply.
My Department's Rural Water Programme provides capital funding under a multi-annual programme and an annual subsidy for the operational and management costs of group water schemes providing water for domestic use. The funding under the Programme is particularly focused on helping group water schemes to achieve wholesome and clean drinking water that is safe to drink on a consistent long-term basis by being compliant with the Drinking Water Regulations.
My Department is responsible for policy while the day to day management of the Programme is devolved to the local authorities. I understand that Kildare County Council, as the supervisory authority under the Drinking Water Regulations for private water supplies, are continuing to actively work with the Group Scheme to sustainably resolve their water quality issues.
Each local authority has appointed a Rural Water Liaison Officer (RWLO). The RWLO deals with the day to day issues for the Programme and can be contacted at the local authority offices.
534. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will add the clematis vitalba plant, known colloquially as old man’s beard, to the national inventory of invasive plant species; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42395/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is responsible for the implementation of the Wildlife Acts and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, both of which prohibit activities to introduce or spread invasive species. In addition to national legislation, EU Regulation 1143/2014 on Invasive Alien Species also provides for a range of concerted EU wide measures to be taken with respect to listed species of Union concern (the 'Union list').
Clematis vitalba is a common species in Ireland with a widespread distribution. It was categorised as an invasive species with a risk of Medium Impact following a risk analysis and prioritisation assessment of invasive alien species in Ireland undertaken in 2013, which can be found at the following link – www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Invasives_taggedMediumImpact_2013RA3.pdf.
Further details on the species in Ireland can be found at the following link: species.biodiversityireland.ie/profile.php?taxonId=28429&taxonDesignationGroupId=26
While there are no immediate plans to update the current Schedule of invasive alien species (the 'national list'), changes to the Schedule will be considered in the context of the development of a national management plan for invasive alien species, work on which is underway in my Department.
535. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if social housing income thresholds in County Kerry will be immediately increased to help families that are struggling with huge rent increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42412/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra610. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on revising and reforming income eligibility for social housing under Housing for All. [43323/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 535 and 610 together.
Housing for All was published in September 2021 and, as part of a broad suite of social housing reforms, committed to reviewing income eligibility for social housing.
The review, which examined inter alia the efficiency of the current banding model and income limits applicable to local authorities, has been completed and I have recently approved implementation of its recommendations.
To this end, I have approved proposals to scope and develop options for a revised or new social housing income eligibility model. The exercise will assess the suitability or otherwise of the current model having regard to the significantly changed landscape since it was introduced, and make recommendations for a model that might more appropriately reflect current needs. The exercise will be managed by the Housing Agency on behalf of my Department. A Terms of Reference is being finalised and I expect a Request for Tender to secure the necessary expertise for this work to issue shortly.
Pending completion of this work later this year, I have also approved changes to the social housing income eligibility bands. Five local authorities - Carlow, Clare, Galway County, Laois and Westmeath - will be moved from Band 3 to Band 2. Accordingly, the baseline income eligibility threshold for these areas will increase from €25,000 to €30,000. The change reflects the movement in rents in recent years and will ensure local authority areas with similar accommodation costs continue to be grouped together in the respective bands. The changes will come into effect from 1 October 2022.
I will publish the final review in due course.
536. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will respond to concerns raised in respect of the first home scheme and the participation of local authorities (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42413/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra556. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason that local authorities are not a participating lender on the first home shared equity scheme; if there are plans for local authorities to participate in this scheme in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42681/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 536 and 556 together.
The new First Home Scheme, launched on 7 July 2022, supports first-time buyers in purchasing new homes in the private market through the use of an equity share model. The Scheme uses regional price ceilings, based on the median prices of new-build homes purchased by first-time buyers, in order to temper any inflationary pressures, to target support at purchases in the lower part of the price distribution in each area, and to encourage the viability of additional housing supply at this price level. Equity support of up to 30% is available to eligible purchasers. An annual service charge applies after Year 5, calculated on the euro amount of equity support provided to enable the purchase.
The First Home Scheme is operated by a Designated Activity Company (DAC) comprising representatives of the scheme funders, including the State, AIB (which includes EBS and Haven), Bank of Ireland, and Permanent TSB. The scheme will also facilitate the inclusion of further commercial lenders in the Irish market over its lifetime.
The rules of the First Home Scheme are detailed on page 6 of the First Home Scheme brochure, and available on the First Home Scheme website at:
www.firsthomescheme.ie/media/4nda0lnn/0827-first-homes-brochure_r14.pdf
Two of the eligibility criteria of the First Home Scheme are (1) to have mortgage approval with a Participating Lender, and (2) to avail of the maximum mortgage available from one of the Participating Lenders (within the 3.5x gross income limit set by the Central Bank's macro-prudential rules).
Essentially, the First Home Scheme has been designed to support buyers in the private market for new-build homes who do have the financial capacity to obtain a mortgage from a commercial lender, but who find that the price of a suitable new home is some degree beyond their existing purchasing power.
As a distinct scheme, and subject to its own standard criteria, the Local Authority Home Loan (LAHL) is available for purchases outside of the scope of the First Home Scheme, including new and second-hand homes and new self-builds. As a separate intervention, the LAHL is targeted at typically more financially constrained households than those targeted by the First Home Scheme. Essentially, to obtain the LAHL, a purchaser must demonstrate they do not have the financial capacity to obtain a mortgage from a commercial mortgage provider in the first place.
I can confirm, however, that the LAHL can be used to buy homes which are made available under the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme. It should also be noted that a first-time buyer of a new home under any State-supported scheme could also be entitled to further support from the Help to Buy tax rebate operated by Revenue.
