Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 1478: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the grants or options available to a person to have central heating installed into their home which they have purchased from the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28707/06]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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There are a number of schemes currently in operation under which grant-aid is available for the provision of heating systems in private houses, including those purchased by tenants from housing authorities.

The essential repairs grant enables people in houses which cannot be made habitable in all respects at a reasonable cost, to have basic repairs carried out to them. The scheme is directed primarily at older persons living in poor housing conditions. There are a number of types of work allowable under the essential repairs scheme, operated by local authorities, including the provision of central heating. The effective maximum grant under the scheme is €9,523 and may cover up to 100% of the cost of the works. This Department funds 2/3 of the costs of the grant with the local authority funding the remainder.

Aid is also available under the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly scheme, which is operated by the Health Service Executive, for necessary repairs to make a dwelling habitable for the lifetime of the occupant. In 2000 the scheme was extended to include the provision of suitable heating systems where found necessary to meet the needs of elderly persons. Funding for the scheme is provided through the National Lottery. The average grant in 2005 was €3,140. In some cases central heating may also be provided under the Disabled Persons Grant Scheme.