Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
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Question 849: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the introduction of a policy of homesteading, that is, the provision of reconstruction grants and loans for the refurbishment and repair of old derelict dwellings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10182/06]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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It is not proposed to reintroduce a generally available house improvement grant scheme. However, there are a number of targeted options currently available to assist vulnerable groups such as lower-income households and elderly persons to secure necessary improvement works to their houses. These include the local authority house improvement loan scheme, the disabled persons and essential repairs grant scheme, the improvement works in lieu of the local authority housing scheme and the task force on special housing aid for the elderly.

The recently launched Housing Policy Framework — Building Sustainable Communities will ensure that specific strategies meet the housing of all those with special needs. Some of these strategies are already in place, while others need updating to include specific targets within the action plans. The voluntary and co-operative housing sector has a particular role in this regard. The disabled person's grant and essential repairs grant have been reviewed and will be reformed to improve equity and targeting.