Dan Neville (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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122. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will give consideration to allocating some moneys under the rural programmes for the upgrading of houses for the elderly which are in urgent need of basic repairs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38911/13]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The broad objectives of the LEADER Axes of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 are to improve the quality of life in rural areas and to encourage diversification of economic activity in rural areas. The measures include a range of initiatives that are designed to promote economic activity in rural areas and also to stimulate broader community initiatives aimed at improving the overall quality of life for rural dwellers. The rules under which the Programme operates, however, do not allow funding to upgrade private homes.

My Department is providing some €45.6 million to local authorities under the suite of Grants for Older People and People with a Disability. In the case of Limerick County Council, the overall allocation for the grant schemes in 2013 is €1,587,391; in the case of Limerick City Council, the allocation is €1,164,070.