Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 213: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason local authorities acquiring housing units under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 must apply different regulations to units being acquired for social purposes as distinct to those being acquired under the affordable housing programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22426/08]

Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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The Building Regulations apply standards for the construction of all new buildings, including social and affordable housing. In addition, units acquired for social housing under Part V agreements are expected to comply with Departmental guidance set out in Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities. In concluding Part V agreements housing authorities may seek certain modifications to house designs from developers to cater for social need in local areas.

Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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Delivery of units under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 is necessarily subject to a number of variables. These include the volume of housing development for which planning permission is granted, the finalisation of individual agreements between local authorities and developers, the timing of commencement and phasing of individual developments, and the general level of activity within the sector itself.

Local authorities have been advised to conclude Part V agreements with developers at the earliest possible stage to ensure the successful delivery of social and affordable housing. Where agreement is reached between the authority and developer on the Part V requirement, it is included as a condition of the granting of planning permission and remains enforceable for the lifetime of the permission which is normally 5 years. My Department will continue to keep the position in relation of Part V agreements under review.