Mark Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle. I appreciate the promotion. I raise the importance of the housing aid and housing adaption grants that are administered by the local authorities. In particular, I refer to a letter recently received by all public representatives in County Kildare stating that the grants have been paused. My office is aware of more than 20 applicants who have been told to apply again next year. Those application forms have been returned to the constituents in question. I am sure the Minister will be aware of the importance of these grants and the great work that is done through them. As a result of their being paused, many people are going through trauma and concern about the quality of their lives. Will the Minister raise this issue with the Minister for housing? Kildare County Council needs additional funding. I understand it is not the only local authority involved, but at a time when people need them most, we should go back and ensure these grants are readily available. There should be no pause in any local authority area.

See this speech in context