I propose to take Questions Nos. 366 and 367 together.
The Repair and Leasing Scheme (RLS) brings vacant properties in need of repair back into use for social housing. The scheme is a crucial initiative in tackling vacancy under Housing for All as, in addition to providing social housing, it also has additional benefits in terms of regeneration, employment and investment in local areas. It assists private property owners, local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) in utilising existing vacant housing stock throughout the country.
As RLS is a demand led scheme, it is not possible to predict the numbers of units which will be delivered in a particular area. The national targets to year 2026 are set out in the table below. All local authorities are encouraged and supported to maximise delivery under the scheme. My Department will shortly commence work with the vacant homes officers in each local authority to set targets that are both ambitious and achievable.
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2022
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2023
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2024
|
2025
|
2026
|
Units
|
120
|
130
|
130
|
140
|
140
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