Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

Under the social housing investment programme, local authorities have traditionally met social housing needs mainly through the construction of housing in local authority estates. In recent years, the supply channels have been expanded to include an increased number of acquisitions, in particular under Part V agreements, and through arrangements with private landlords under the rental accommodation scheme. At the same time there has also been an expansion in the volume of accommodation provided by voluntary and co-operative housing bodies.

The new leasing initiative, under which authorities will procure properties on long-term leases of ten to 20 years, is designed to widen further the sources of supply and thereby help create a flexible range of delivery mechanisms for local authorities to meet demand for social housing. The use of leasing arrangements will allow for a substantial increase in the number of households that will have their housing needs met over what would otherwise be possible. It is expected that, through this measure, at least 2,000 additional homes will be procured this year.

Under the initiative it will be a matter for each local authority to determine what properties and locations are suitable for social housing. In putting forward leasing proposals, local authorities will be expected to have regard to the Department's guidelines for social housing, and all proposals must be consistent with the policy of creating sustainable communities. As with all social housing investment, local authorities will have to ensure on a case-by-case basis that value for money is achieved. Overall, however, I am satisfied this approach will facilitate the effective and efficient use of public finances. To this end, I have provided €20 million within this year's housing budget to meet leasing costs.

See this speech in context