James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputy Sheehan for asking when funding will be made available for a project. This is the shortfall of €5 million to cover infrastructure for the Mungret LDA development of 250 units in Limerick. The Deputy's question relates to the development of the lands at the former Mungret College, which is a key strategic priority for Limerick City and County Council. The site will see the delivery of 250 affordable and social homes, together with community and crèche facilities over a three- to four-year period. This includes the proposed development of 181 affordable purchase homes and two community dwellings for people with disabilities in partnership with the Land Development Agency and homes for older people and a crèche being delivered by the approved housing body Clúid.

Funding approval from the affordable housing fund is in place to support the delivery of the 181 affordable purchase homes by the LDA. However, Limerick City and County Council has advised my Department that an additional funding requirement has arisen for enabling infrastructure. I understand that Limerick City and County Council is considering the matter in conjunction with its delivery partners. I also understand the strategic importance of this development and will work proactively with Limerick and its delivery partners to support the work.

It is envisaged that the housing activation office will manage a multi-annual housing infrastructure investment fund under the national development plan. The scope of this fund will be determined as part of the review of the national development plan, which is due to be completed in July. This will inform the programme of investment. While I cannot comment on any individual sites in advance of the opening of that fund for infrastructure proposals, there will be engagement with stakeholders, including local authorities, to identify priority areas for support.

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