Ms Mary Hurley:

When the Senator was not present, we spoke about the things that were funded under the housing adaptation grants scheme. In certain instances, local authorities when carrying out inspections have discretion to decide whether to fund some heating element in a person's house. Stoves are not encompassed by the initiative, but there is a piece on heating. I will ask somebody in my Department to liaise with the Senator's local authority and discuss her suggestion.

Earlier a question was asked about whether the Department inspected the works carried out under the housing adaptation scheme. We work very closely with local authorities on works carried out. The Department receives clear documentation on the works carried out as part of various projects and invoices. The work is certified by local authorities. It is important to the Department that the works are certified, carried out appropriately and to the required standard.

The issue of public private partnerships and land has been raised. My colleague, Ms Neary, will say a couple of words on the matter as she has done some work on same. We are advancing a number of the ideas mentioned. I also ask Ms Neary to mention the costs associated with universal design.

On downsizing, we have mentioned that 89% of people want to continue living in their communities and that it is about providing a suite of other options. If there are other options available, it may very well suit people to live in supported accommodation where would they feel more safe and stable. We are working on various options for older people.