Written answers

Thursday, 11 October 2007

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government

Grant Payments

5:00 pm

Photo of Michael RingMichael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 162: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the situation in relation to the essential repairs grant administered by Mayo County Council as the scheme criteria state that the applicant must be aged 65 or over (details supplied); if this is discrimination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23198/07]

Photo of Batt O'KeeffeBatt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The regulations governing the essential repairs grant scheme, which is operated by local authorities, do not specify an age qualification. The scheme is designed to enable older people whose houses cannot be made habitable in all respects at a reasonable cost to have basic repairs carried out. In determining priority between grant applicants, local authorities would have regard to relative means and needs and they generally restrict payment of essential repairs grants to older persons.

The administration of the scheme in individual cases is a matter for the local authority concerned within the framework laid down in the regulations, which as far as is practicable, is designed to give an appropriate degree of flexibility to authorities at local level. In addition, local authorities are encouraged to operate the scheme in a sympathetic and flexible manner, having regard to the needs of the applicant.

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