David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 485: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the formal communication his Department has with local authorities regarding the equitable operation of the disabled persons' housing grant scheme; the plans he has to issue formal guidelines in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2906/04]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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The statutory regulations governing the operation of the disabled persons grants scheme and the accompanying guidance circular were formally issued to local authorities in December 2001. The framework for the operation of the scheme is laid down in the regulations which, as far as practicable, are designed to give an appropriate degree of flexibility to local authorities.

A review of the scheme is being finalised in my Department at present and on its completion I will be in a position to determine the changes, if any, required to the regulations governing the scheme to ensure that the funding available is directed at those persons in greatest need of such assistance. In the context of the introduction of any amendments to the scheme I would propose to issue appropriate guidelines on their operation to local authorities.