Written answers
Thursday, 17 April 2008
Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Social and Affordable Housing
5:00 pm
Chris Andrews (Dublin South East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 617: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, with the downturn in the price of property, there will be a corresponding decrease in the cost of affordable housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14816/08]
Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Affordable housing is currently made available at substantially below the market price for comparable housing. Direct subsidies by my Department to local authorities, the provision of land by the State and local authorities at below market value, and the capacity, through Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006, to acquire land at "existing use" value all contribute to making dwellings affordable for those who, under normal circumstances, could not afford to buy their own homes.
The impact on the affordable housing schemes of changes in the overall housing market is liable to vary depending on factors such as location and delivery mechanism involved. However, it is my intention to ensure that, insofar as better value is available, this will be fully reflected in the delivery of affordable housing.
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