Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 666: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the continued delays to build a women's refuge in Dublin 15. [34424/05]

Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 667: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason residential housing density guidelines are used to determine capital funding for women's refuges. [34425/05]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 666 and 667 together.

I assume that the question refers to assistance from my Department under the voluntary housing capital loan and subsidy scheme for a proposed project by Sonas Housing Association in Blanchardstown. An application for funding under this scheme has been received from Fingal County Council; clarification on a number of aspects has been sought from the council and is awaited. When this is to hand, the application will be further considered by my Department and the council will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible.

My Department's involvement with the voluntary housing schemes relates primarily to the provision of funds for individual projects. The detailed administration of the scheme and the certification that particular projects comply with the terms of the scheme are the responsibility of the local authority, in this instance, Fingal County Council.

Local authority development plans set out an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area of the plan which should be informed by the housing strategy required under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000. Matters relating to residential densities are appropriately addressed in this context.