Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 October 2023
179. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 531 of 19 January 2022, and 192 of 4 May 2022, the current status of the social housing passport reforms; the reason for the delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45436/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government provides for a package of social housing reforms, including a social housing passport to allow households move from one local authority waiting list to another.
An initial scoping exercise was carried out which identified a range of practical and administrative issues, including those related to the maintenance of seniority on housing waiting lists, local connection requirements, the efficient allocation of existing housing stock, and resource implications for local authorities. Further work is required to assess the practical application of such a scheme in the context of other reform package measures.
It should be noted however, there is already a degree of flexibility regarding housing waiting lists. The four Dublin local authorities have arrangements allowing social housing applicants apply for housing in up to two of the other Dublin authorities simultaneously. Similar arrangements apply in the two Cork and two Galway local authorities. Households may also move and relocate between housing authority areas under the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme where the household income is within the relevant income limits.
