Written Answers Nos. 84-114
84. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a person who is applying to be readmitted to the local authority housing list after being on the rental accommodation scheme for ten years or more will be treated as a first-time applicant or will their time on the RAS be taken into consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62581/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraHouseholds may leave social housing for a variety of reasons, including no longer being in need of such support. If circumstances subsequently change, such households may apply for social housing support again at any stage.
If deemed eligible, they will qualify for the suite of social housing supports and will be placed on the housing list to be considered for suitable tenancies in accordance with the relevant local authority’s allocation scheme. Notwithstanding, local authorities will prioritise allocations to those households they consider to be most in need at any moment in time in accordance with their allocation scheme.
Similarly, households in receipt of housing support can submit an application for a transfer, including from one form of support to another, for example from RAS to social housing, or from one local authority dwelling to another. Requests for transfers are considered solely by the relevant local authority concerned in accordance with their allocation scheme.
However, whether reapplying afresh or seeking to transfer from one housing support to another, any time previously spent in receipt of support, such as RAS or HAP, is not taken into account when allocating support.
85. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will detail the funding recouped by each local authority under the Voids Programme from 2018 to date; the number of vacant houses that were renovated and reissued to tenants by each local authority through the Voids Programme from 2018 to date in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62582/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe management and maintenance of local authority housing stock, including pre-letting repairs to vacant properties, the implementation of a planned maintenance programme and carrying out of responsive repairs, are matters for each individual local authority under Section 58 of the Housing Act 1966.
Since 2014, Exchequer funding has also been provided through my Department's Voids Programme to support local authorities in preparing vacant units for re-letting. This funding was initially introduced to tackle long term vacant units and is now increasingly targeted at ensuring minimal turnaround and re-let times for local authority vacant stock.
An annualised breakdown by local authority of the funding provided and the number of properties remediated under the Voids programme for the years 2014-2021 is available on my Department's website at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/collection/0906a-other-local-authority-housing-scheme-statistics/#voids-programme.
Under the 2022 Voids Programme, funding of €25 million has been made available across the local authorities for the remediation of 2,273 properties. Full details of the 2022 Voids outturn will be published early in 2023.
Details in relation to the allocation of these properties are not routinely collated by my Department. The allocation of social housing support to qualified households is a matter for the housing authority concerned in accordance with the authority’s allocation scheme made under section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and associated Social Housing Allocation Regulations 2011.
86. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he has plans to undertake a review of the voting process to ensure compliance with the UNCRPD and universal design in consultation with designated public officials and persons with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62583/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra87. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will detail the training in disability awareness that is in place for all returning officers and polling staff; if he has plans to introduce a complaints mechanism to ensure timely and appropriate remedies to those polling station service users with disabilities who have a justified complaint; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62584/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra88. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider removing the need to renew access for postal voting on an annual basis for persons with a disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62585/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra89. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the actions that he has taken to ensure that information in polling stations is in accessible formats for people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62586/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra90. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he has investigated alternative voting mechanisms that are currently in place in other countries that make voting more accessible for people with disabilities such as internet voting which takes place in Estonia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62587/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 86 to 90, inclusive, together.
Under the provisions of Part III of the Electoral Reform Act 2022, the introduction of a rolling electoral registration process (in contrast to the former annual registration process) means that people can register or update their details, including postal voting applications at any time of year up to the usual deadlines in advance of an electoral event. As part of applications for a postal vote for those with an illness, disability or mental health difficulty that prevents them from attending a polling station, the certifying medical practitioner no longer needs to provide the nature of the illness or disability but can indicate an expected duration, which the registration authority will have regard to when assigning a postal voting arrangement. This means that for those people with longer term or ongoing issues, annual renewal will not be required.
The Electoral Reform Act 2022 also sets out the legislative provisions for a new independent electoral commission for Ireland, entitled An Coimisiún Toghcháin. An Coimisiún will be an independent body of substance, with a range of new functions including a research, advisory and voter education role. An Coimisiún's research role will mean that it is well placed to review and make recommendations in respect of electoral matters. This will include matters relating to the accessibility of voting, including international developments in this regard. An Coimisiún will also be well placed to provide advice and recommendations relating to alternative voting mechanisms. Under section 68 of the Electoral Reform Act, An Coimisiún Toghcháin will have a function to report on the administration of electoral events, with specific reference to the assistance given by presiding officers or returning officers under the accessibility provisions set out in the electoral acts. This will be a significant step in highlighting best practice and encouraging a consistent implementation of accessibility provisions across all constituencies.
Recognising that people with disabilities have particular needs, my Department endeavours to ensure that the voting process is as accessible and inclusive as possible. In my Department’s Memorandum for the Guidance of Returning Officers, which issues in advance of electoral events, advice is provided about the selection of polling stations having regard to the needs of voters with disabilities. Where it has not been possible to acquire premises for polling stations that are or can be made accessible to wheelchair users, Returning Officers must give public notice of these premises as soon as they are selected as polling stations. They are advised to do so as soon as possible but, as a minimum, they are required to do so no later than 8 days before polling day so as to give electors adequate time to apply to have their vote transferred to an alternative accessible polling place if they so wish. The Guidance advises Returning Officers that the form of public notice could include advertising in national and local newspapers, use of appropriate websites, use of local media and communicating with local disability groups as well as other relevant local and national groups.
My Department’s Memorandum for the Guidance of Returning Officers also addresses the need for awareness regarding the needs of voters with disabilities. Returning Officers are required to provide at each polling station an appropriate table and chair, located in such a position as to ensure secrecy in voting, at which electors such as wheelchair users, persons with a physical disability, persons with vision impairment or the elderly can mark their ballot papers if they find it more convenient. Where feasible, they are asked to consider installing a low height voting compartment to facilitate voters who use wheelchairs or those who are short of stature.
My Department’s Manual for Presiding Officers, which also issues to Returning Officers in advance of electoral events for use in their polling stations, draws particular attention to the needs of voters with disabilities. The Manual sets out a number of practical measures in this regard. Local Returning Officers are responsible for providing necessary training for their staff, including Presiding Officers, in advance of polling day.
More generally, the Electoral Acts contain measures to assist voters with particular disabilities. Voters who are blind or vision impaired or who are otherwise so physically incapacitated or are unable to read or write to such an extent that they are unable to vote without assistance may avail of companion voting or voting with the assistance of the Presiding Officer. Section 88 of the Electoral Act 1992 (as amended) provides that the presiding officer shall prominently display a copy of the ballot paper in large print at the polling station and that the ballot paper may include a photograph of each candidate. Large print posters relating to “Electoral Offences” and “Evidence of Identity” are also displayed at polling stations to assist voters with a visual impairment. Blind and vision impaired voters also have the option to use a ballot paper template to enable them to vote independently.
Finally, the Program for Government, Our Shared Future, commits to An Coimisiún Toghcháin being mandated to examine the use of postal voting with a view to expanding its provision. Upon its establishment in early 2023, it is intended that An Coimisiún will be requested to carry out this research.
91. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the progress that is being made with the roll-out of rapid build housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62600/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing for All is the Government’s plan to increase the supply of housing to an average of 33,000 per year over the next decade. This includes an average of 10,000 new build social homes each year in the period to 2030. Housing for All is supported by an investment package of over €4bn per annum, through an overall combination of €12bn in direct Exchequer funding, €3.5bn in funding through the Land Development Agency and €5bn funding through the Housing Finance Agency.
Modern methods of construction (MMC) has been identified as a key measure to address increased housing delivery and methods to support increased use of MMC are set out in Pathway 5 of Housing for All. The development of MMC will improve productivity in construction and increase efficiency in residential construction. The development of MMC is being led by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment which has established a MMC Leadership and Integration Group and my Department is represented on this Group. This Group is ensuring the cohesive integration and coordination of the various Government supported MMC initiatives. These initiatives include:
- The establishment of a multi-location Construction Technology Centre, consortium led by the University of Galway;
- A new Demonstration Park for MMC at Mount Lucas, operated by Laois Offaly Enterprise and Training Board; and
- The National Construction Training Centre at Mount Lucas,
Under Housing for All, the Government will deliver an average of 10,000 new build social homes each year in the period 2022-2030. The Housing for All Action Plan Update and Quarter 3 2022 Progress Report, which was published on 2 November, includes a new action to develop a roadmap with targets for increased use of MMC in public housing. My Department is now working closely with the local authorities to increase the use of MMC in social and affordable housing. The Government has agreed to the allocation of €100m to pay down loans on sites which can deliver social housing projects linked to accelerated delivery, which will include the use of MMC.
My Department publishes the Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR). The CSR provides details of social housing developments that have been completed, are under construction or are progressing through the various stages of the design and pre-tender process. This includes developments being delivered through Rapid/Design Build construction. The most recent publication was for Q2 2022. The report is available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/5a259-social-housing-construction-projects-status-report-q2-2022/. Data for Quarter 3 is being finalised and will be published shortly.
A version of the CSR file can also be downloaded for analysis at the link below: data.gov.ie/dataset/social-housing-construction-status-report-q2-2022?package_type=dataset.
92. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will report on plans to open new fire stations nationwide within the next two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62601/22]
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.
Project consideration stages in my Department include submission of preliminary and detailed appraisals; submission of design brief; selection of site; application for approval in principle; appointment of design consultants; submission of a preliminary design; planning application; submission of preliminary cost plan, detailed design and cost plans; and tender process and construction stages - each step subject to approval from my Department.
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 were received. The proposals were evaluated and prioritised on the basis of the:
- Area Risk Categorisation of the fire station (population, fire risks, etc.);
- established Health and Safety needs;
- state of development of the project (is site 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.
The attached table details the stage of development for new/replacement Fire station projects on the Capital programme 2021 -2025.
Capital Programme Fire Stations 2021-25
|
County |
Location |
Type |
Notes |
|
Cavan |
Ballyjamesduff |
New |
Under Construction, expected completion in 2023 |
|
Cork |
Kanturk |
Replacement |
Station officially opened May 2022 |
|
Cork |
Macroom |
Replacement |
Under Construction, expected completion in 2023 |
|
Cork |
Clonakilty |
Replacement |
Tender Approved, construction to begin in 2023 |
|
Galway |
Athenry |
New |
Tender Approved, construction to begin in 2023 |
|
Galway |
Loughrea |
New |
Expected to begin construction in 2023 |
|
Kildare |
Maynooth |
Replacement |
Expected to begin construction in 2023 |
|
Kilkenny |
Urlingford |
New |
Under Construction, expected completion in 2023 |
|
Kilkenny |
Kilkenny |
New |
Expected to begin construction in 2023 |
|
Leitrim |
Manorhamilton |
New |
Expected to begin construction in 2023 |
|
Laois |
Stradbally |
New |
Expected to begin construction in 2023 |
|
Louth |
Dunleer |
New |
Expected to begin construction in 2023 |
|
Mayo |
Crossmolina |
New |
Under Construction, expected completion in 2023 |
|
Meath |
Nobber |
Refurb/Upgrade |
Under Construction, expected completion in 2023 |
|
Monaghan |
Ballybay |
New |
Expected to begin construction in 2023 |
|
Waterford |
Kilmacthomas |
New |
At planning stage, likely construction in 2024 |
|
Wexford |
New Ross |
New |
Station officially opened November 2022 |
|
Wicklow |
Baltinglass |
New |
At planning stage, likely construction in 2024 |
|
Wicklow |
Dunlavin |
New |
At planning stage, likely construction in 2024 |
93. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to address issues raised in a report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62602/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe report recently published by Cork City Council Women’s Caucus, “Women’s Voices in the Council Chamber”, is very informative regarding the historical and present-day representation of women in Irish local government, and in Cork City specifically. The report raises a number of important issues in relation to gender balance in local government and highlights the lived experiences of women candidates and councillors.
I have approved funding to a number of initiatives aimed at combatting some of the issues identified in the report.
A funding scheme was introduced in March 2019 to incentivise political parties to increase the number of women candidates in the 2019 local elections. In 2021, I launched a revised version of the scheme, which now includes suggested activities and measurables along with additional funding provided. This new scheme is open to all registered political parties and, in the interests of inclusivity, to official representative groups of independent councillors. Recently I was happy to announce a further €215,594 to seven political parties and two independent groups to encourage an increase in the number of women candidates and people of diversity running in the Local Elections in 2024.
My Department also funds partner organisations such as Women for Election, Longford Women’s Link and The National Women’s Council of Ireland to provide capacity building and training services, benefitting all women interested in entering local government, with or without political party affiliation.
In early 2021, my Department provided funding to the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI) to undertake research entitled “Women doing politics differently – development of local or regional caucus for women councillors – identifying interest and examining possible supports”. To support the findings of this research, I approved funding for local authorities to assist with the establishment and running of such caucuses. €62,000 was provided in total to 15 local authorities, and one inter-county group supported by the AILG and Longford Women’s Link.
My Department continues to support local authorities in their efforts to encourage the participation of women and wider diversity in local government structures. I have approved funding to local authorities for projects which have included building general awareness of local government and participation in local decision-making structures among women, and minority and diverse communities. Recently, I announced funding allocations in the amount of €192,200 which was awarded to 18 local authorities where approved proposals had a strategic focus on activities that would encourage and support gender and diversity balance in local government structures and decision making ahead of the 2024 local elections. Local authorities were asked specifically to examine the increasingly prevalent issue of online abuse directed at councillors.
The Local Government (Maternity Protection and Other Measures for Members of Local Authorities) Bill 2022 completed Committee Stage last week and it is hoped to progress through the Houses of the Oireachtas before the end of year recess. This progressive Bill gives legislative effect to Government commitments to establish, for the first time, an entitlement of maternity leave to local authority elected members, equivalent to the current entitlement for employees under the Maternity Protection Act 1994. This is an innovative piece of legislation that aims to encourage any woman who wishes to become involved in local government to do so knowing that there will be statutory supports and inclusive structures in place to allow access to maternity leave. Once Maternity leave has been made available to councillors, the Department can examine how best to provide for other family leaves.
With regard to the report’s recommendation on the introduction of gender quotas, at present, state funding of political parties is linked to the achievement of a gender balance in candidate selection for Dáil general elections only, by a provision of the Electoral (Amendment) (Political Funding) Act 2012. The intention at the time was that these measures would have a knock-on effect by providing an incentive to political parties to expand voluntarily their gender diversity. These funding provisions also had an impact by highlighting the issue of gender disparity in politics and providing a starting point for addressing imbalances.
The Programme for Government - Our Shared Future sets out a broad range of electoral reforms which the Government is committed to delivering during its term of office, including a specific commitment to the establishment of an independent, statutory Electoral Commission. Administrative arrangements for the establishment of the Electoral Commission – entitled An Coimisiún Toghcháin – are currently being put in place by a transition team within the Department.
An Coimisiún will strengthen our electoral system as a whole and help us to anticipate and respond to the challenges we face in our evolving electoral environment. An Coimisiún Toghcháin will have a research and advisory function. In this context, the Programme for Government commits the Electoral Commission, when established, to undertake a number of items of research on electoral matters and an Coimisiún will be well placed, if requested, to undertake a comprehensive review of the Electoral Act 1997 which provides the statutory framework for dealing with political financing and the funding of political parties.
94. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason that the cost of funding the changes recommended by the Moorehead Report is not being centrally-funded for local authorities into 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62603/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 1 July 2021, with the agreement of Mr Michael McGrath TD, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, I gave effect to new regulations implementing proposals approved by Government to reform the remuneration and allowances payable to local councillors. This was in line with the Programme for Government commitment to implement the Moorhead Report within 12 months.
It was agreed that the additional cost to local authorities would initially be met from central funds and thereafter from local authorities' own funds. This was due to no budgetary provision having been made by local authorities for 2021 since the Government decision was made after the 2021 budgetary processes had concluded.
When negotiating the budget for 2022 it was agreed with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, as an exceptional measure, that local authorities could once again be assisted with funding for additional costs in relation to the implementation of councillor pay reforms. This was agreed in the context of the financial difficulties faced by local authorities as a result of COVID-19 pandemic.
No specific provision has been made in 2023 in relation to the costs of implementing the Moorhead Report. This is a resumption of normal practice as, prior to 2021, there was no specific allocation from central funds for the purpose of councillor remuneration.
Nonetheless it should be acknowledged that the Government is making a significant contribution in 2023 of €481 million to support local authorities. A large portion of this amount, €287.2 million, will be to assist local authorities with the cumulative effect on pay costs arising from the national pay agreements and the unwinding of the financial emergency measures in the public interest legislation.
95. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will make priority funding available for Kildare County Council to refurbish the large number of council homes requiring major works to bring them back into use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62604/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe management and maintenance of local authority housing stock, including pre-letting repairs to vacant properties, the implementation of a planned maintenance programme and carrying out of responsive repairs, are matters for each individual local authority under Section 58 of the Housing Act 1966.
Since 2014, Exchequer funding has also been provided through my Department's Voids Programme to supplement the local authority funding available for the preparation of vacant properties for re-letting. The funding was introduced originally to tackle long term vacant units and is now increasingly targeted to support authorities to ensure minimal turnaround and re-let times for vacant stock.
From 2014 to 2021, expenditure of some €261 million was recouped to local authorities under the Voids Programme which funded the return to productive use of 18,527 properties nationwide. Local authorities also provide significant funding from their own resources to address the level of vacancy within the social housing stock.
Under the 2022 Voids Programme, funding of €25 million has been made available across the local authorities for the remediation of 2,273 properties.
My Department will continue to support local authorities in their work in this area. Funding allocations under the 2023 Programme will be announced early in 2023. Notwithstanding the voids funding being provided by my Department, local authorities have a responsibility to provide adequate housing maintenance budgets for 2023 and this parallel work by local authorities is essential for the development of the planned maintenance approach, which is an objective of Housing for All.
Given the very significant investment into the Voids Programme over recent years, local authorities should now be in a strong position to begin the transition to a strategic and informed planned maintenance approach to stock management and maintenance. To that end, my Department and local authorities are working to transition from a largely response and voids-based approach to housing stock management and maintenance, to a planned maintenance approach as referenced in Housing for All, policy objective 20.6. This will require the completion of stock condition surveys by all local authorities and the subsequent development of strategic and informed work programmes in response. This process has started this year as a further €5 million in funding has been ring-fenced for Planned Maintenance under this years Planned Maintenance/Voids Programme to support the implementation of an ICT asset management system for the local authority sector and to provide a funding contribution for the commencement of stock condition surveys.
96. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the planning guidelines for early learning and childcare will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62621/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Planning Framework (NPF) recognises the importance of the provision of childcare facilities specifying that “the continued provision and enhancement of facilities and amenities for childcare and young people such as childcare, schools, playgrounds, parks and sports grounds, remains necessary and will need to be maintained at similar levels for the foreseeable thereafter”. Furthermore, the NPF includes a specific National Strategic Outcome 10 entitled Access to Quality Childcare, Education and Health Services, while National Policy Objective 31 identifies the requirement to invest in ‘…a childcare/ECCE planning function, for monitoring, analysis and forecasting of investment needs, including identification of regional priorities; The provision of childcare facilities and new and refurbished schools on well-located sites within or close to existing built-up areas, that meet the diverse needs of local populations…’;
In respect of childcare provision as part of the development management process, the Guidelines for Planning Authorities relating to Childcare Facilities, were issued in 2001 by this Department under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, to provide a framework to guide both local authorities and developers. Planning Authorities and An Bord Pleanála are required to have regard to the guidelines in carrying out their functions. The Guidelines set out the methodology for calculating adequate provision of childcare places and are intended to ensure a consistency of approach to the treatment of applications in respect to the land use planning aspects of childcare provision, for relevant planning applications, developers and childcare providers in formulating and considering development proposals.
Officials from my Department are currently engaging with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth in relation to updating the Section 28 Childcare Facilities Guidelines for Planning Authorities. An interdepartmental meeting has been held to discuss the review of the guidelines and further engagement is planned in early 2023 to advance this area of work.
97. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the National Coastal Change Management Strategy steering group will report on its initial findings and recommendations given that the group was due to report within six months of its foundation in September 2020 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62628/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government established an Inter-Departmental Group on Managing Coastal Change to scope out an approach for the development of a national co-ordinated and integrated strategy to manage the projected impact of coastal change to our coastal communities. The Inter-Departmental Group is jointly chaired by my Department and the OPW and it will bring forward options and recommendations for the Government to consider. The Inter-Departmental Group is supported by a Technical Working Group.
The Technical Working Group has considered the range of data, information and research available across State organisations and that which is needed in the short, medium and longer term to monitor the projected impact of coastal change associated with sea level rise.
The Group’s report is now at an advanced stage of finalisation and will be presented to the Government for its consideration shortly.
98. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the derelict sites levies that are levied, collected, owed and cumulatively owed; and the number of sites on each register on 31 December 2021 and at current date by local authority for 2021 and to date in 2022, in tabular form. [62632/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra99. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the date for the return of collection data for 2022 of the derelict sites levy. [62633/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 99 together.
Local Authorities are required to submit an annual return to my Department providing information on the operation of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in their functional areas. The derelict sites returns for 2022 will be collected in Q2 of 2023.
The most recent data available for 2021 in relation to the collection of the levy is based on returns submitted to my Department further to the issuing of Circular Letter PL 05/2022 on 20 June 2022, requesting the submission of a progress report on the implementation and collection of the levy by each local authority. This information is provided below.
|
Local Authority |
No. of Derelict Sites on Register at 31 December 2021 |
Amount levied during the year |
Amount received in respect of sites levied during 2021 |
Cumulative amount of levies outstanding at 31 December 2021 |
|
Carlow |
25 |
€122,068.00 |
€5,000.00 |
€256,731.00 |
|
Cavan |
21 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Clare |
39 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Cork County |
67 |
€32,200.00 |
€ - |
€32,200.00 |
|
Cork City |
95 |
€1,740,000.00 |
€570,000.00 |
€4,200,000.00 |
|
Donegal |
18 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Dublin City |
79 |
€1,540,971.00 |
€417,447.00 |
€4,756,429.00 |
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
10 |
€159,250.00 |
€17,500.00 |
€737,324.00 |
|
Fingal |
5 |
€ - |
€ - |
€7,500.00 |
|
Galway City |
9 |
€11,900.00 |
€ - |
€23,900.00 |
|
Galway County |
1 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Kerry |
65 |
€19,250.00 |
€ - |
€255,490.00 |
|
Kildare |
23 |
€125,800.00 |
€3,300.00 |
€313,738.00 |
|
Kilkenny |
13 |
€ - |
€ - |
€12,450.00 |
|
Laois |
13 |
€ - |
€ - |
€108,300.00 |
|
Leitrim |
36 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Limerick City & County |
266 |
€482,541.00 |
€41,138.00 |
€1,063,290.00 |
|
Longford |
36 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Louth |
4 |
€13,500.00 |
€ - |
€50,040.00 |
|
Mayo |
253 |
€96,953.00 |
€10,383.00 |
€86,570.00 |
|
Meath |
30 |
€122,111.00 |
€ - |
€580,352.00 |
|
Monaghan |
30 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Offaly |
19 |
€ - |
€ - |
€120,240.00 |
|
Roscommon |
3 |
€ - |
€ - |
€4,200.00 |
|
Sligo |
26 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
South Dublin |
13 |
€ - |
€ - |
€212,533.00 |
|
Tipperary |
42 |
€38,150.00 |
€ - |
€93,938.00 |
|
Waterford City & County |
33 |
€ - |
€ - |
€ - |
|
Westmeath |
85 |
€357,958.00 |
€32,250.00 |
€1,849,386.00 |
|
Wexford |
53 |
€168,140.00 |
€ - |
€627,721.00 |
|
Wicklow |
3 |
€26,950.00 |
€ - |
€32,100.00 |
|
Total |
1415 |
€5,057,742.00 |
€1,097,018.00 |
€15,424,432.00 |
100. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the latest data on the amounts levied, collected, owed and cumulatively owed; and the number of sites on each register for the vacant sites levy by local authority in tabular form. [62634/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe most recent data available in relation to the collection of the levy is based on returns submitted to my Department further to the issuing of Circular Letter PL 03/2022 on 25 March 2022 requesting the submission of a progress report on the implementation and collection of the levy by each local authority. This information is provided in the attached Table.
It should be noted that under section 19 of the Act, unpaid levies due remain a charge on the land in question until they are paid. My Department will continue to engage proactively with local authorities to ensure that all vacant site levies due are paid and that the measure can achieve its full potential.
VSL Payments (in respect of 2021 7% rate)
|
Planning Authority |
No. sites liable 2022 in respect of 2021 |
Value. sites liable 2022 in respect of 2021 |
No. and Value of Demands Issued in respect of 2021 |
No and Value of sites for which payments were collected in respect of 2021 |
No and Value of sites for which payments are outstanding in respect of 2021 |
|||
|
Carlow |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Cavan |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Clare |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Cork City |
6 |
434875 |
6 |
€434,875.00 |
3 |
€315,875.00 |
3 |
€119,000.00 |
|
Cork County |
16 |
€8,197,000.00 |
4 |
600250 |
0 |
0 |
9 |
140200 |
|
Donegal |
4 |
€487,065.00 |
0 |
€487,065.00 |
0 |
€487,065.00 |
0 |
€487,065.00 |
|
Dublin City |
24 |
€4,471,950.00 |
24 |
€4,471,950.00 |
1 |
€16,450.00 |
23 |
€4,455,500.00 |
|
DLR |
4 |
€5,950,000.00 |
4 |
€416,500.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Fingal |
6 |
€1,734,250.00 |
1 |
€49,000.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
1 |
€49,000.00 |
|
Galway City |
6 |
€4,550,000.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Galway County |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Kerry |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Kildare |
13 |
€10,015,000.00 |
6 |
€701,050.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Kilkenny |
3 |
2,065,000 |
2 |
€1,315,000 |
0 |
€0.00 |
2 |
€1,315,000 |
|
Laois |
2 |
TBD |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
1 |
€52,500.00 |
|
Leitrim |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Limerick |
6 |
€8,315,000.00 |
6 |
€577,706.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
6 |
€577,706.00 |
|
Longford |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Louth |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Mayo |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Meath |
11 |
€9,275,000.00 |
5 |
€493,500.00 |
1 |
€400,000.00 |
10 |
€8,875,000.00 |
|
Monaghan |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Offaly |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Roscommon |
17 |
€2,955,000.00 |
17 |
€206,850.00 |
1 |
€18,375.00 |
16 |
€188,475.00 |
|
Sligo |
21 |
€20,682,000.00 |
21 |
€983,100.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
21 |
€983,100.00 |
|
South Dublin |
10 |
€13,845,000.00 |
10 |
€969,150.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
10 |
€969,150.00 |
|
Tipperary |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Waterford |
16 |
€8,702,186.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
16 |
€8,702,186.00 |
|
Westmeath |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
|
Wexford |
2 |
€300,000.00 |
2 |
€21,000.00 |
0 |
€0.00 |
2 |
€21,000.00 |
|
Wicklow |
14 |
€4,205,000.00 |
14 |
€294,350.00 |
1 |
€12,600.00 |
14 |
€292,250.00 |
|
Total |
181 |
€106,184,326.00 |
122 |
€12,021,346.00 |
7 |
€1,250,365.00 |
134 |
€27,227,132.00 |
101. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of affordable homes sold by county in 2022. [62635/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra103. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of affordable homes delivered by county to date in 2022. [62637/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 103 together.
Housing for All sets out the range of actions necessary to increase the supply of housing to the required 33,000 homes, on average, per year over the next decade. 54,000 affordable home interventions will be delivered between now and 2030 to be facilitated by local authorities, Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs), the Land Development Agency (LDA) and through a strategic partnership between the State and retail banks.
In implementing the key objectives under Housing for All, each local authority has prepared and published a Housing Delivery Action Plan in respect of local authority supported or overseen delivery from 2022 to 2026. 18 local authorities with a strong and identified affordable housing need were asked to include their planned affordable housing delivery in their Action Plans. I have also set individual five-year Affordable Housing delivery targets for those local authorities.
2022 represents the commencement of a very ambitious programme of delivery of affordable housing. A pipeline of affordable housing delivery is being developed by local authorities, by Approved Housing Bodies using the Cost Rental Equity Loan and by the Land Development Agency. Furthermore, local authorities have been begun collating information on delivery of affordable homes in their area in the same manner as is currently done for social housing.
It is intended that information on delivery across all delivery streams will be gathered by my Department and I expect that my Department will be in a position to begin reporting on affordable delivery in national quarterly delivery statistics in Q1 2023.
Furthermore, the First Home Scheme, launched in July this year, supports first-time buyers in purchasing new houses and apartments in the private market through the use of an equity share model, similar to that employed in the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme. The Scheme aims to support in the region of 8,000 households in acquiring new homes in the private market in the years 2022 to 2026 with an overall budget of €400 million. The scheme is available nationwide and more information can be found at www.firsthomescheme.ie/.
102. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of cost rental homes that persons have moved into by county in 2022. [62636/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra104. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of cost rental homes delivered by county to date in 2022. [62638/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 102 and 104 together.
Under Housing for All, the Government will deliver 54,000 affordable homes between by 2030, to be facilitated by local authorities, Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs), the Land Development Agency (LDA) and through a strategic partnership between the State and retail banks.
In implementing the key objectives under Housing for All, each local authority has prepared and published a Housing Delivery Action Plan in respect of local authority supported or overseen delivery from 2022 to 2026. 18 local authorities with a strong and identified affordable housing need were asked to include their planned affordable housing delivery in their Action Plans. I have also set individual five-year Affordable Housing delivery targets for those local authorities.
2022 represents the commencement of a very ambitious programme of delivery of affordable housing. A pipeline of affordable purchase and cost rental housing delivery is being developed by local authorities, by Approved Housing Bodies using the Cost Rental Equity Loan and by the Land Development Agency. Furthermore, local authorities have been begun collating information on their delivery of affordable homes as well as the AHB sector in their area in the same manner as is currently done for social housing. It is intended that information on delivery across all delivery streams will be gathered by my Department and I expect that my Department will be in a position to begin reporting on affordable delivery for 2022 in the national quarterly delivery statistics in Q1 2023.
The LDA has an immediate focus on managing the State’s own lands to develop new homes, and regenerate under-utilised sites. In the longer-term, it will assemble strategic land-banks from a mix of public and private lands making these available for housing, which is expected to bring essential more long-term stability to the Irish housing market.
The LDA is also tasked with unlocking stalled private, planning-consented developments in the shorter-term through its market engagement initiative - Project Tosaigh. An expressions of interest process was launched at the end of 2021, and the LDA now has a pipeline of projects anticipated to deliver cost rental and affordable purchase homes. The LDA recently launched a renewed expressions of interest process under Project Tosaigh seeking proposals from the homebuilding sector for the forward purchase of unbuilt residential units. Work is underway in assessing proposals submitted. Details of current LDA developments on public land and Project Tosaigh can be found at www.lda.ie.
The LDA has also been asked to begin collating information on its delivery of affordable homes. It is intended that this information will be reported along with national quarterly delivery statistics for local authorities and AHBs.
105. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of houses delivered by local authority and by AHBs respectively by county in tabular form. [62639/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity in all local authorities, including information on social housing delivery by local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies in each local authority. This data is available until the end of Quarter 2 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 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 2 2022 and is available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/5a259-social-housing-construction-projects-status-report-q2-2022/
A version of the CSR file can also be downloaded for analysis at the link below:
data.gov.ie/dataset/social-housing-construction-status-report-q2-2022?package_type=dataset.
The Quarter 3 statistics are being collated and will be published in shortly, in conjunction with the Quarter 3 Construction Status Report.
106. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to Parliamentary Question No. 76 of 5 May 2022, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that 2C of the Northwest Quarter Regeneration has not been completed. [62640/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraCork City Council have advised my Department that the Phase 2C construction contract for 24 houses in the Cork City Northwest Quarter Regeneration is not complete as there is a quality control issue with the works on site which the employer, Cork City Council, is addressing contractually with the main building contractor.
My Department continues to work closely with Cork City Council to progress the ambitious and far reaching Regeneration programme in the city.
107. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the timeline for delivery of the Northwest Quarter Regeneration in Cork. [62641/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe detailed advancement of housing and other works under the Cork City North West Quarter Regeneration (CNWQR) programme is a matter, in the first instance, for Cork City Council.
The CNWQR Masterplan & Implementation Report was published in 2011. The strategy outlined a departure from previous policy, with a proposal to carry out wholesale demolition of the housing stock in Knocknaheeny that has not been the subject of previous refurbishment works.
To date 76 units have been completed in phases 1B and 2A of this programme, with Phase 2C, comprising 24 units, under construction.
Phase 1C (41 units) and Phase 2B (38 units) have recently commenced construction with projected delivery in Q4 2023.
Phases 3B (62 units) and 4A (43 units) received Part 8 Planning approval in 2022 and are at the detailed design phase and are expected to complete in Q2 of 2025. In that regard, Phase 3 demolition works are substantially complete at Knocknaheeny Avenue and Harbour View Road, and Cork City Council is engaged in an ongoing decant of homeowners and tenants in Phases 3 and 4.
My Department awaits funding submissions and programme dates for the remaining phases.
The CNWQR programme runs until 2027, and it is envisaged that projects will be ongoing until this date.
108. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of successful rightsizing applications by each local authority to date in 2022, in tabular form. [62642/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing supports and the oversight and practical management of housing waiting lists, including the application for, and allocation of, tenancies, is solely a matter for the relevant local authority in accordance with the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, and associated regulations. Whilst some local authorities operate right-sizing schemes, my Department does not hold information on the number of applicants who have applied to right-size. The information sought may be available from the local authorities.
Housing for All (published in September 2021) provides a new housing plan for Ireland to 2030 with the overall objective that every citizen in the State should have 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. The strategy sets out, over four pathways, a broad suite of measures to achieve its policy objectives together with a financial commitment of in excess of €4 billion per annum.
The strategy commits to increasing the housing options available to older people to facilitate ageing in place with dignity and independence, including the development of a national policy on right-sizing. Work is underway in my Department to inform and progress the development of national policy on right-sizing.
Local authorities have autonomy to design blended developments encompassing a range of housing solutions in line with the specific, local housing need. In any individual, multi-unit public housing development, this may encompass housing units that are larger to accommodate large families or for mobility-friendly use including age-friendly and housing solutions for disabled people, or that might facilitate right-sizing or are smaller units suitable for individuals. Most public housing developments are not singularly focused on one type of housing category. Specific details of the blend of housing and the allocations of such housing across different categories of need and use is a matter for local authorities.
109. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of HAP properties purchased by local authorities to date in 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62643/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing for All, is the Government’s plan to increase the supply of housing to an average of 33,000 per year over the next decade. This includes the delivery of 90,000 social homes by 2030. Housing for All is supported by an investment package of over €4bn per annum, through an overall combination of €12bn in direct Exchequer funding, €3.5bn in funding through the Land Development Agency and €5bn funding through the Housing Finance Agency.
Under Housing for All, the Government will deliver 47,600 new build social homes and 3,500 social homes through long-term leasing in the period 2022-2026. Our clear focus is to increase the stock of social housing through new build projects delivered by local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies (AHB) and, with this, to reduce the numbers of social homes delivered through acquisition programmes. However, acquisitions of second hand properties for social housing fall under a number of local authority and Approved Housing Body (AHB) acquisitions programmes.
On 19 January my Department issued a circular letter to local authorities advising that social housing acquisitions by local authorities and AHB CALF acquisitions in 2022 would be focussed on a number of priority areas, as follows:
- One-bedroom units to deliver on Housing First and meet the short supply in this category;
- Other properties that allow persons/families to exit homelessness; and
- Specific housing required for/suitable for individuals with a disability or other particular priority needs;
Local authorities were also advised that limited acquisitions through the Capital Assistance Scheme will also be approved, subject to the available budget for specific vulnerable cohorts, such as housing for older people, accommodation for individuals and families who are homeless and for people with a disability.
On 20 April, a further circular letter issued to local authorities in relation to social housing acquisitions. The key purpose of this circular was to advise local authorities that I had reinstated the delegated sanction to local authorities in respect of social housing acquisitions which are:
(i) in one of the priority categories set out in the January circular letter;
(ii) in line with acquisition cost guidelines; and
(iii) can be completed during 2022.
The reinstatement of delegated sanction will allow local authorities to respond more flexibility to secure acquisitions which support a household to exit or to prevent homelessness. I have requested local authorities to be proactive in acquiring properties which can prevent homelessness, including properties where a notice of termination has been issued to the tenant. In November I wrote to local authorities to inform them that the current arrangements for social housing acquisitions were being extended to the end of June 2023.
My Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity in all local authorities, including information on social housing acquisitions. This data is available until the end of Quarter 2 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 does not hold data on the occupation status of properties acquired for social housing.
110. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the overall percentage of social housing delivered under universal design principles to date in 2022. [62644/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraA key action under Housing for All was the preparation of Housing Delivery Action Plans by local authorities. These Plans set out details of social and affordable housing delivery over the period 2022-2026, in line with targets set under Housing for All. The Plans also include details of the proposed delivery of housing to meet the needs of older people and people with disabilities, including the number of homes to be delivered each year. The Housing Delivery Action Plans are available on the websites of the relevant local authorities.
The Design Manual for Quality Housing, which I launched early this year is available at www.gov.ie/en/publication/b3e02-design-manual-for-quality-housing/.The Manual includes internal layouts which meet the requirements of universal design homes as set out in the Universal Design Guidelines for Homes in Ireland. The policy document, the National Housing Strategy for Disabled People 2022–2027 sets a requirement for local authorities in the delivery of social housing, to ensure that 50% of the new pipeline delivery being reserved for disabled people in each local authority being wheelchair liveable.
My Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity in all local authorities. This data is available until the end of Quarter 2 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 does not hold data on the number of social homes delivered under universal design principles. This information may be available from local authorities directly.
111. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the percentage of private estates that must be delivered under universal design principles. [62645/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Building Regulations set out the minimum legal performance requirements for the design and construction of new buildings (including dwellings) and certain works to existing buildings.
The Building Regulations (Part M Amendment) Regulations 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 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. The accompanying Technical Guidance Document M – Access and Use (2010) (TGD M), provides guidance on how the requirements of Part M can be achieved in practice. TGD M is available on my Department’s website at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/78e67-technical-guidance-document-m-access-and-use/#current-edition.
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.
My Department, in conjunction with the Department of Health, published the "Housing Options for Our Ageing Population" policy statement in 2019 which provides policy options in support of a range of housing and accommodation alternatives for older people. Action 4.6 of Housing Options for Our Ageing Population contains an action to, in ‘partnership with industry, introduce measures to ensure that over a five-year period delivery is increased to ensure that 30% of all new dwellings are built to incorporate Universal Design principles to accommodate our ageing population’.
The policy statement, together with the third and final Implementation Group report, including an update on Action 4.6 as referred to by the Deputy, are available on the Government's website at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/83781d-housing-options-for-our-ageing-population-policy-statement/.
112. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the actions that he is taking to ensure that strategic development in areas is plan led and not developer led. [62646/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraA number of measures have been and continue to be implemented to establish our planning system as ‘plan-led’, where nationally agreed strategic development policies are followed through and developed in more detail at local level.
The National Planning Framework (NPF) is a long-term 20-year strategy to plan for identified future economic and population growth, supported by public investment through alignment with the National Development Plan (NDP). Following the adoption of the NPF and the three subsequent Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies (RSESs), the process of reviewing city and county development plans by individual planning authorities is now nearing completion.
When finalised, this will be the first time that there has been an integrated hierarchy of statutory spatial plans, shaping the future pattern and form of development in Ireland and underpinned by public investment. Legislative requirements ensure alignment across these different scales of plan, whereby local choices made in city and county development plans are consistent with agreed national and regional planning policies – thereby integrating policy across the different scales of planning from the national, to the regional, to the local.
Development Plan Guidelines for Planning Authorities were published under section 28 of the Planning Act by my Department on 1st July 2022, and set out national guidance for the preparation of development plans. These Guidelines provide a reference manual for the overall development plan process and assist planning authorities in ensuring that their plan is consistent with the strategic national and regional policy objectives of the National Planning Framework and RSESs. A fundamental task at the heart of the development plan process is to achieve a balance between national and local priorities in the common good, and to formulate agreed local objectives in compliance with national and regional policy. The policies of the development plan thereby establish the ‘plan-led’ context for the decision-making process on individual planning proposals in the development management process.
The Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) was established in 2019 with a key statutory role to evaluate and assess development plans, during their preparation and making, in order to ensure that they set out a strategy for proper planning and development and are consistent with national and regional planning policies. In this regard, the legislation makes provision for the OPR to advise the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage where, in the opinion of the Office, a plan does not set out a strategy for proper planning and development or is not consistent with identified and established national and regional development policies. This process may be applied to remedy such circumstances and empowers the Minister to direct that changes are made to the relevant plan, where in agreement with the recommendations of the OPR. Such evaluation of plans is an important support to the ‘plan-led’ approach whereby the quality and consistency of plan-making is subject to rigorous independent examination.
The review and consolidation of the Planning and Development Act 2000 is one of the actions being undertaken further to the Housing for All strategy. This review has been led by the Attorney General and has involved extensive work, with engagement from my Department in terms of policy input and feedback from stakeholder engagement. A key aim of the review is to put plan-making at the heart of the planning system by bringing increased clarity and streamlining to planning legislation and improving the functioning of the planning process for both practitioners and the general public. An updated Planning and Development Act is intended be delivered in 2023 to further establish the ‘plan-led’ approach at the heart of our planning system.
113. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department takes a role in ensuring that private developments purchased by local authorities for the provision of social housing are of an adequate standard. [62647/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe design and construction of buildings is regulated under the Building Control Acts 1990 to 2014, in order to ensure the safety of people within the built environment.
Social housing standards are set out by my Department in the Design Manual for Quality Housing.
Social housing provision via the purchase of private units can be a good source for new Social Housing delivery when appropriately located and meeting local housing need. In this regard, my Department provides local authorities with advice on the provision of new build housing through turnkey acquisition in order for them to appropriately pursue this source, alongside all the other delivery mechanisms. The latest advice for Arrangements for the Provision by Local Authorities of Social Housing through Turnkey Projects is issued in Housing Circular 31/2019.
As part of my Department’s advice, local authorities are recommended to undertake a two stage evaluation process to ensure Turnkey units are of an adequate standard. Stage 1 of the local authority’s Turnkey evaluation process involves an assessment by an evaluation panel regarding the following criteria: suitability of location, land zoning status and availability of utilities. Only those locations deemed suitable by the local authority-appointed evaluation panel move onto Stage 2.
Stage 1 of the Turnkey evaluation process requires a more detailed submission by the individual or company submitting the turnkey proposal. In order to adequately analyse the standard of the proposed units, the following material is requested by the evaluation team: details on the individual or company submitting the proposal; the site location map; proposed site layout; house types; floor plans, areas; schedule of materials and finishes; number and mix of units proposed; details of planning permission; location of local amenities and public utilities; the all-in cost (that is, offer price) of the units; and a timeframe/programme for completion of the units.
Following assessment of the Stage 2 Turnkey submissions to the local authority, only those proposals deemed suitable by the evaluation panel, advance for further discussion and possible agreement for purchase.
114. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the maximum price has still not been issued for a development (details supplied) in Cork despite the scheme being advertised in September 2022. [62648/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra115. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the maximum sale price of an affordable home in a development (details supplied) in Cork city. [62649/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 115 together.
A key objective for the Government under Housing For All, is ensuring that homes are being made available to purchasers at a minimum of 15% below current market values, and for Cost Rental properties at a targeted 25% below market rental values for the area.
This, along with the affordable delivery and cost rental pipeline, local housing and property information and current construction costs have been key discussion items between my Department officials and local authorities and all are working to deliver housing at the lowest possible affordable purchase prices and cost rents feasible.
I introduced the Affordable Housing Fund last year to directly assist local authorities to bring forward affordable homes. In terms of the affordable housing supports my Department has made available, I am happy to advise that Cork City Council has confirmed it is delivering 36 homes in Cluain Chaoin, Tower under an affordable purchase scheme. The 36 affordable purchase homes are being supported by €1.8 million in funding from the Affordable Housing Fund and, following an application process, applicants are currently being assessed for the homes.
The affordable purchase price of these homes will be linked to the applicants' income and mortgage capacity, and their individual purchasing power above the minimum purchase price. The minimum purchase prices will be €241,000 for a two-bedroom homes, €280,000 for a three-bedroom homes and €345,000 for the four-bedroom homes.
A link to the scheme details and eligibility follows: cluainchaoin.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Application-Process-and-Support-Documents.pdf.
