Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 87 together.

Housing for All provides a new housing plan for Ireland to 2030, with an overall objective that citizens in the State should have access to good-quality homes through a steady supply of housing in the right locations with economic, social and environmental sustainability built right into the system. The strategy sets out, over four pathways, a broad suite of measures to achieve its policy objectives, together with a financial commitment of in excess of €4 billion per annum. A suite of measures under way in the pathway to address vacancy and the efficient use of housing stock includes the Croí Cónaithe towns fund, as referenced by the Deputy, which will be delivered by local authorities for the provision of serviced sites housing to attract people to build their own homes and support the refurbishment of vacant properties. This will enable people to live in small towns and villages in a sustainable way.

The consideration of the approach to the Croí Cónaithe towns fund is at an advanced stage, including the scope and appropriate timeframes, and will be launched very shortly. As Deputy Matthews said, this is an important fund from the Government and one which will breathe new life into towns and villages. A direct payment will enhance the viability of bringing vacant and derelict stock back into residential use. It is important to breathe life into towns and villages across the country. We look forward to launching this fund later on this year. I look forward to seeing applications coming in from the 31 local authorities.

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