Written answers

Thursday, 13 July 2017

Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government

Housing Assistance Payments

Photo of Catherine MurphyCatherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

7. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the policy decision that has led to the situation in which there is now a disparity in equality of accessing the housing assistance payment in respect of persons assessed under the current social housing guideline legislation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33121/17]

Photo of Eoghan MurphyEoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The flexibility of the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) as a social housing support is one of the scheme’s key characteristics and was one of the primary benefits envisaged at the outset of the scheme. The new arrangements for movement between local authorities, introduced in April 2017, have increased equality of access by allowing households eligible for social housing support to avail of HAP in any local authority area, subject to the current Social Housing Eligibility Income Bands. Such flexibility  removes administrative barriers and delays, better utilises all private rental stock for social housing purposes and provides for maximum activation potential of HAP households by removing geographical barriers to employment, such as loss of housing support or loss of time on a transfer list.

The Homeless Place Finder Service which operates in Dublin and Cork can also utilise HAP inter-authority movement, as they seek out potential properties suitable for households who have been identified as homeless. For example, in the case of the Dublin  Placefinder Service, because of the flexibility of HAP, the Service can support homeless households residing in emergency accommodation but who wish to have their long-term housing needs met in another local authority area, to find suitable accommodation supported by HAP. However, the rent limits that will apply to any HAP property, in respect of any household, will be those which apply in the local authority where the property is situated.  All local authorities facilitating inter-authority movement, including those assisting homeless households to exit homeless accommodation via a Place Finder Service, must consult with the new local authority in relation to the appropriate level of support that should be provided in order to ensure equity.

HAP is an important and valuable tool in supporting all households, including homeless households, who need assistance with their long-term housing needs.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.