Increasing Demand for Social Affordable Housing

Question 190: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government taking into account the 12.4% population increase in the Kildare north constituency, as outlined in Census 2011, the measures being taken by Kildare County Council to increase the number of social affordable housing units to cater for increasing demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [Ref No: 19389/11]

Response by Minister Willie Penrose (Department of Environment, Community and Local Government): 7th July 2011

Under the social housing investment programme, local authorities meet social housing needs from a variety of sources including the traditional construction and acquisition programmes, projects advanced by the voluntary and co-operative sector and through the leasing of accommodation from private landlords and property owners. In 2011, my Department allocated €5.7 million for Kildare authorities for capital social housing supply programmes. Funding has also been set aside for leasing and for the Rental Accommodation Scheme.

To ensure that the social housing investment programme is delivered in a coherent and coordinated manner, each local authority, in consultation with my Department, has formulated a programme of work for 2011, having regard to their notified funding allocations, and the prioritisation of commitments and new proposals. Under these plans, particular emphasis is placed on achieving best value for money having regard to the current economic situation while responding to local housing needs.