Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

Will the Minister accept there is a communication problem between his Department and local authorities in this regard?

The Minister stated in his initial reply that where poor standards are brought to the attention of a community welfare officer, the matter may be discussed with the tenant and whatever action necessary will be taken. The Minister is aware there is a dearth of accommodation available for people on rent supplement and that very often they are forced to put up with what they have or be homeless. It is not good enough for the Minister to preside over a situation whereby large amounts of public money are being spent on accommodation while he opts out of the issue in respect of the standard of that accommodation.

On how many occasions have community welfare officers brought to the attention of local authorities accommodation which was of a poor standard? Will the Minister consider issuing guidelines to community welfare officers in respect of the standards of accommodation and what action they can take when appalling standards are brought to their attention?

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