Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 December 2022
80. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will outline the scope of the review of section 25 of the Housing (Regulation of Approved Housing Bodies) Act 2019; when the review is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62485/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs provided for in the Housing (Regulation of Approved Housing Bodies) Act 2019 (the Act), the Approved Housing Bodies Regulatory Authority (AHBRA) was formally established on 1 February 2021.
AHBRA is an independent body tasked with the regulation of Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) for the purposes of protecting housing assets provided or managed by such bodies. The powers and functions of AHBRA, conferred upon it under the Act, commenced on a phased basis beginning on 1 February 2021. Phased implementation of the Act continued through 2021 and 2022. Some key milestones include: -
- On 1 January 2022 responsibility for the register of AHBs, previously managed by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, was transferred to AHBRA; and
- On 15 February 2022, the standards for the sector that include the governance of AHBs; financial management and reporting of AHBs; property and asset management; and tenancy management were approved.
- All remaining sections of the Act were commenced on 1 July 2022, ensuring AHBRA has all of the powers provided for under the Act.
I can confirm that a formal review of the Act is not being carried out. However, as with all legislation, in the implementation period, the practical application is monitored. An issue that has arisen with the implementation of Section 25 of the Act is being examined and the issue of further legislative amendments is currently being considered by my Department.
