Dáil Éireann - Volume 396 - 28 February, 1990

Written Answers. - Voluntary Housing Scheme.

62. Mr. T. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment if he proposes to increase on a pro-rata basis the current limit of £20,000 capital assistance per dwelling unit under the 1984 scheme of capital assistance for non-profit and voluntary housing, having regard to the additional costs and changes which have taken place since 1985 when the sum of £20,000 was fixed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Flynn): The development of the voluntary housing scheme is closely monitored and changes are and will be made as they become necessary. The increase in the 1990 provision for the scheme to £9.275 million, as compared to £6.6 million last year, reflects the current high level of demand under the scheme and is indicative of the continuing effectiveness and adequacy of the existing grants. While I will keep the matter under review I am satisfied that at present an increase in the grant limits is not a prerequisite to continued growth in the voluntary housing sector.