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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 6 and 9 together.

Applications for social housing support are assessed by the relevant local authority in accordance with the eligibility and need criteria set down in section 20 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and the associated social housing assessment regulations. The regulations prescribe maximum net income limits for each local authority in different bands according to the area concerned, with income being defined and assessed according to a standard household means policy. The income bands, and the authority area assigned to each band, were based on an assessment of the income needed to provide for a household's basic needs plus a comparative analysis of the local rental cost of housing accommodation throughout the country. A blanket increase of €5,000 was also introduced prior to the new system coming into operation.

Net income is defined as gross household income less income tax, PRSI, universal social charge and additional superannuation contribution. The policy provides for a range of income disregards. Local authorities may disregard temporary, short-term or once-off income. Determining whether an applicant household meets the income criteria is now based on its preceding 12 months' net average income prior to receipt of the application. This ensures the most comprehensive picture of a household's current and previous income is available when the eligibility assessment is carried out. It also better reflects the long-term nature of social housing supports and in doing so ensures fairness and equity in the system and that those with a continuing long-term need are prioritised. Eligibility may be reviewed by a local authority, for example, at the point of allocating support. Households are generally removed from the housing list if they exceed the income limits. They may re-apply for social housing at any stage but, if deemed eligible on re-application, they are not re-instated to their previous position on the list.

Housing for All - A New Housing Plan for Ireland was published in September 2021 and, as part of a broad suite of social housing reforms, committed to reviewing income eligibility for social housing. The review, which examined inter aliathe efficiency of the current banding model and income limits applicable to local authorities, has been completed. The Minister, Deputy O'Brien, is considering its findings and recommendations. The review is being considered in the context of our affordable housing scheme and cost rental scheme, the amendment to Part V from 10% to 20% social housing and all of the affordability measures available in the State in the new Housing for All package. Local authorities have discretion on short-term or one-off income that can be disregarded when assessing a housing application. The key priority for the Government is to ensure the most vulnerable get the support they need. The Minister, Deputy O'Brien, will shortly make recommendations from the review.

Those on the list who, further to a review by the local authority, fail to meet the criteria and subsequently reapply will be reinstated at the position they had previously on the list. This is very important reassurance for people. Looking back over the previous 12 months is the fairest system to ensure that all income is captured. If there are changes, temporary changes or one-off income it can be disregarded.

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