Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Local authorities are allocated funding in the normal way. Obviously, it will be allocated. If there are particular cases that are a huge priority, it is up to local authorities to make a business case to our Department on an issue. That is a fundamental tenet. To take the capital assistance scheme, CAS, there was an additional allocation of approximately €140 million last year. It ended up that €220 million was spent. That €220 million is the actual spending figure rather than an allocation figure. It is much higher.

We gave approximately €8 million extra for housing adaptation grants last year. Once again, to go back to the local authorities, they put in their applications. When I hear situations whereby it is said that it is just about what the local authorities get, they should make the business case. I had this with vacant homes officers in Cork. Ultimately, when it comes down to it, local authorities should make the business case. Every situation should be based on that. I am very practical as regards this issue; people should get local authorities to make the business case. I ask the Cathaoirleach to allow us follow up on the case about independent living he referenced.