Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 195: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proposals he has to introduce a grant system for older house owners who would not have the means to bring their property up to EU energy rating regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11045/08]

Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)
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My Department operates a number of grant schemes to assist older people in carrying out repairs and improvements which may assist in improving the energy efficiency of their homes. The Housing Aid for Older People scheme, which was introduced in November 2007, provides targeted support to improve conditions in the existing housing of older people. The types of works grant aided under the scheme may include structural repairs and improvements, repairs to / replacement of windows and doors and provision of central heating and associated insulation works. The effective maximum grant under the scheme is €10,500 which may cover up to 100% of the cost of works.

The Special Housing Aid for the Elderly Scheme was established to provide assistance, by way of emergency repairs, to improve conditions in the existing homes of older people living alone in unfit or unsanitary conditions. The Scheme is operated by a Task Force under the aegis of my Department with implementation at local level by the Health Service Executive. In line with a Government Decision this Scheme will be transferring from the Health Service Executive to the local authority sector in the context of the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme as soon as all relevant issues arising from the transfer are satisfactorily resolved. In addition, older people will benefit from the central heating programme introduced by my Department in July 2004. The programme assists local authorities in providing central heating facilities in their rented dwellings which lack them. The programme involves not just the provision of central heating, but, where necessary, measures to ensure the energy efficiency of the dwelling.

Furthermore, I am aware that Sustainable Energy Ireland funds and coordinates the Warmer Homes Scheme, which provides insulation and other energy efficient measures to low income homes across Ireland. I understand that the service is delivered principally through community based organisations that typically provide the labour from a FAS or Rural Social Scheme. Sustainable Energy Ireland provides funding towards overheads and material for the operation of the service, which is provided at little or no cost to the homeowner. The services provided under the Warmer Homes Scheme include draught proofing, attic insulation, lagging jacket, low energy light bulbs and cavity wall insulation.