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

Given that the Croí Cónaithe scheme was launched last November in certain rural areas and towns, a figure of 1,250 is a fair success so far. The repair and leasing scheme totals 350 properties, which comprise multiple units. The scheme is highly successful. There has been a publicity drive from the Department to get the information out as to how the scheme works. I encourage Deputies to tell people with vacant properties to avail of the scheme.

There are vacant homes officers in every local authority. We publicly stated during the last round of questions a month ago that in cases where local authorities wish to appoint additional vacant homes officers and they have a business case, they should make it to the Department. That particular area is an open book.

Deputy Canney acknowledged that Croí Cónaithe is a good scheme. I take his point on older people. It is something we will take into consideration. In many cases, people may be in a nursing home or so forth. The case he mentioned is valid. The rental side is not dealt with in the scheme, but we are open to looking at that and will take it on board.

In response to Deputy Stanton's comments on the repair and leasing scheme, the 350 properties involved comprise multiple units. I will get him the precise figure. There is a vacant homes officer in every local authority, except for Donegal which is currently recruiting. Regarding a previous question on local authorities applying for additional vacant homes officers, I took it upon myself to make inquiries. Cork has yet to make that application. It is important the Deputy goes back to that local authority. We are awaiting these requests, which have not yet come in.

Deputy O'Callaghan asked about CPOs for properties that are rented. That is being actively considered by the Department. It is something we are looking to do.

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