Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 118: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take in view of the fact that in excess of 4,000 vacant houses under the affordable housing scheme may by in the possession of local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15014/09]

Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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Information from local authorities indicates that the number of affordable units on hands nationally is now in the region of 3,700 units. Many of these are already in process of sale or will be sold in the coming months.

In light of analysis by the Affordable Homes Partnership and engagement with local authorities, a circular has now issued to authorities setting out guidance in relation to the stock of affordable homes, highlighting the need for effective action to achieve early sale of units to eligible affordable purchasers, with particular emphasis on effective marketing and sales. Local authority annuity loan limits are being increased to €220,000 to assist relevant purchasers in the current market, where private finance has become more difficult to access.

In tandem with the focus on sales, authorities are being asked to evaluate all options available to them and the circular sets out possible alternative options to bring into use any affordable units which may not be possible to sell to affordable purchasers at this time. These options include Transfer of affordable properties to the Rental Accommodation Scheme for a period; Sale to local authority tenants under the Incremental Purchase Scheme; Use of affordable properties for a period as a social housing support under a leasing arrangement where appropriate.

My Department will continue to monitor and support local authorities' work to address these challenging issues, and will adapt and develop the approaches involved as necessary in the evolving housing market and economic climate.